Biology – 6.2 Plant nutrition – mineral requirements | e-Consult
6.2 Plant nutrition – mineral requirements (1 questions)
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Nitrate Deficiency:
A deficiency of nitrate ions limits protein synthesis, impacting various plant processes. Here's how:
- Reduced Amino Acid Production: Nitrate is converted to ammonia and then to amino acids. A lack of nitrate directly reduces the availability of these building blocks.
- Impaired Enzyme Synthesis: Enzymes, which catalyze vital biochemical reactions, are proteins. Reduced protein synthesis means fewer enzymes are produced.
- Stunted Growth: The overall effect is stunted growth, reduced leaf development, and poorer overall plant health.
Nitrate Deficiency Effects:
- Stunted growth
- Yellowing of leaves (chlorosis)
- Reduced yield
Magnesium Deficiency:
Magnesium is a central component of the chlorophyll molecule. A deficiency leads to:
- Chlorophyll Formation Impairment: Without sufficient magnesium, the porphyrin ring in chlorophyll cannot be formed correctly.
- Reduced Light Absorption: Improper chlorophyll formation means the plant cannot absorb light energy efficiently.
- Chlorosis: The lack of chlorophyll results in chlorosis, where leaves turn yellow, particularly between the veins.
- Reduced Photosynthesis: Reduced light absorption directly translates to reduced rates of photosynthesis, leading to less food production for the plant.
Magnesium Deficiency Effects:
- Chlorosis (yellowing of leaves)
- Interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between veins)
- Reduced leaf size
- Reduced photosynthesis
In summary, both deficiencies significantly impair plant growth by disrupting key processes – protein synthesis (nitrate) and photosynthesis (magnesium).