plant mineral ions- lqc 2c

Question 1

importance of water in plants

Answer 1

· As a reactant in the process of photosynthesis
· To keep plant cells turgid to support the plant
· Needed for hydrolysis reactions eg. breaking down starch
· As a solvent to dissolve and transport plant mineral ions

Question 2

why does the plant need calcium ions

Answer 2

To make calcium pectate (joins with pectin) for making the middle lamella which holds plant cells together. Also has a role in membrane permeability

Question 3

calcium ion deficiency symptoms

Answer 3

Young leaves turn a yellow colour and go crinkly Growing points die back
Stunted growth

Question 4

why do plants need magnesium ions

Answer 4

To make chlorophyll, which is needed for the process of photosynthesis Also needed for
· Nucleic acid synthesis
· Activation of some plant enzymes

Question 5

deficiency of magnesium ions symptoms

Answer 5

Less chlorophyll leads to less photosynthesis so less glucose being made and stunted growth Yellowing of leaves between the veins

Question 6

why do plants need nitrate ions

Answer 6

To make amino acids for the synthesis of proteins (some of which are enzymes), for growth
Also found in:
· Chlorophyll
· Nucleic acids (e.g. DNA/RNA )
· ATP
· Growth hormones

Question 7

nitrate ion deficiency symptoms

Answer 7

Older leaves turn yellow and die
Lack of side shoots (spindly plants)
Stunted growth due to lack of enzymes/proteins