Question

When do deficiency symptoms occur in mobile and immobile elements?

Answer 1

Deficiency symptoms:

This refers to a deficiency or shortage in elements essential for various activities in living organisms.

Immobile elements: These are the elements that are immobile and are not transported across the cell membrane.

Mobile elements: These elements are transported across membranes and hence are considered mobile.

1. Immobile element deficiency in plants such as sulfur and calcium, first appear in young tissues and leaves.
2. The deficiency symptoms are varied and include, stunted plant growth, premature fall of leaves and buds, and yellowing of leaves.
3. In the case of mobile elements, such as potassium and nitrogen, deficiency symptoms appear first in senescent and old leaves.
4. This is because elements are spread from the older leaves to younger leaves.