Question

Which among the following is a beneficial element but not included as micro or macroutrient required by certain higher plants?

• A. Nitrogen
• B. Phosphorus
• C. Silicon
• D. Potassium

Answer 1

The correct option is C Silicon

Apart from macronutrients and micronutrients, which are essential for plant growth, there are certain elements called beneficial elements. They are not required by all plants but are found beneficial to higher plants. They promote growth and also enhance resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Biotic stresses include pathogens and abiotic stresses include drought and salinity.
E.g. : Aluminium, sodium, silicon, cobalt and selenium
N, P and K are essential macronutrients required by all plants in higher quantities. These are also called critical elements.