(a) In a tabular form, briefly discuss the following plant nutrients: (i) Potassium; (ii) Phosphorus; (iii) Calcium. Under the following headings: (i) form in which it is absorbed; (ii) three functions; (iii) one deficiency symptom.
(b) Give two examples of nitrogenous fertilizers.
(a)
|
PLANT NUTRIENT |
FORM IN WHICH IT IS ABSORBED | FUNCTION |
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS |
|
Potassium |
Potassium cation/k+ |
-associated with enzymatic activities. It contributes in controlling stomata) opening and thus water movement in - Important in metabolism and translocation of carbohydrates. - important in neutralizing plant acids. - It strengthens plant stems and aids the uptake of nitrates |
- retarded growth. - premature loss of leaves |
|
Phosphorus |
- Phosphate anion p0³-₃ -P₂0₅ |
- It is associated with enzymatic actions. - It is also an important constituent of nuclear protein. - It strengthens the plants' skeletal structure. - It confers on plants the ability to ward off diseases. - It is essential for cell division; - essential for root development; - essential for food formation. - It hastens the ripening of fruits. |
- plant becomes purple - stunting of plant parts. - poor root and bark development. - flowers, fruits and seeds fail to form. |
|
Calcium |
Calcium cation/Ca2+ | - It is important in cell wall formation. - It is also essential for growth of roots. - it controls toxicity of Al³⁺,Mn³⁺, and Na+. - It is equally important in translo-cation and storage of food into tubers/seeds. - It neutralizes acids in plants and takes part in metabolic activities. |
- stunting of roots. - leaves turn yellowsh |
(b) Examples of nitrogenous fertilizers are: (i) urea (ii) ammonium sulphate (iii) sodium nitrate (iv) calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN)
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