Minerals

Question 1

Three minerals needed for healthy growth in plants

Answer 1

Magnesium for making chlorophyll
Calcium for the production of new cell walls
Nitrogen in the form of nitrates for the formation of protein

Question 2

Why are root hair cells adapted for absorption

Answer 2

They have an extended cell wall that increases the surface area for absorption of minerals and water.

Question 3

Active transport/uptake

Answer 3

The nitrates are low concentration in the soil and therefore to enter the root they have to move against the concentration gradient. This requires energy which is supplied by aerobic respiration and so oxygen is needed.

Question 4

Why do farmers use fertilisers

Answer 4

For growth because harvest plants don’t get a chance to decay

Question 5

Natural fertiliser

Answer 5

Manure

Compost

Question 6

Artificial fertiliser advantages

Answer 6

Easier to apply to fields

More accurate level of each mineral applied

Question 7

Advantages of natural fertilisers

Answer 7

Low cost
Release nutrients throughout the growing season
Do not leach easily

Question 8

Disadvantages of artificial fertilisers

Answer 8

Soluble and can leach into rivers causing pollution
More expensive
Food cannot be labelled organic

Question 9

Disadvantages of natural fertilisers

Answer 9

Difficult to store

Unknown amounts of minerals they contain