The effect of a lack of nitrate and of magnesium ions on plant growth

Question 1

How does magnesium affect plant growth

Answer 1

Magnesium is needed for chlorophyll synthesis, which form part of its structure. This metallic element is also obtained in salts from the soil

Question 2

What happens when there is a lack of magnesium ions

Answer 2

Deficiency of magnesium results in the yellowing of leaves (Chlorosis)

Question 3

How does nitrate affect plant growth

Answer 3

Nitrates, which are absorbed from the soil by the roots provides nitrogen for the synthesis of amino acids from sugar molecules or smaller carbohydrate molecule.

Notes: Amino acids join together to form proteins and enzymes

Question 4

What happens when there is a lack of nitrate ions

Answer 4

Deficiency of nitrate leads to poor growth due to the lack of nitrogen which is need for the synthesis of amino acids that make up proteins for protoplasm build-up