Question

Which one of the following statements can best explain the term critical concentration of an essential element?

• A. Essential element concentration below which plant growth is retarded
• B. Essential element concentration below which plant growth becomes stunted
• C. Essential element concentration below which plant remains in the vegetative phase
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Essential element concentration below which plant growth is retarded

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option:

1. There are seventeen essential elements for plants.
2. The concentration of the essential element below which plant growth is retarded is termed critical concentration.
3. When an element is present below the necessary concentration, it is said to be deficient.
4. Each element plays one or more distinct structural or functional roles in plants, and when an element is missing, certain morphological changes in plants occur.
5. These morphological alterations are deficiency signs because they suggest specific element shortages.

Final answer: Essential element concentration below which plant growth is retarded is the statement best explains the term critical concentration of an essential element.