Question

List the macronutrients and mention their major function.

Answer 1

Macronutrients for plants are :

1. Carbon

2. Hydrogen

3. Oxygen

Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen are mainly structural components and all macromolecules are made up of these elements. They are also known as framework elements.

4. Nitrogen : present in proteins, nucleic acids, etc.

5. Phosphorus : content of nucleic acids, phospholipids, ATP, GTP, etc

6. Potassium : Enzymatic activity, opening of stomata, water and ionic balance

7. Sulfur : present in proteins and coenzymes.

8. Magnesium : present as central atom in chlorophyll, required for enzyme activation and ribosome stability

9. Calcium : present in middle lamella, acts as co factor for enzyme, an excellent secondary messenger, etc.