Question

How does phosphorus get into plants?

Answer 1

Phosphorous:

It is a macromolecule required by the plant. Phosphorus is absorbed by the organic matter in the soil which is used for various biological processes.

Phosphorous gets into the plant by the following method:

1. Phosphorous is present in water in dissolved form.
2. Phosphorous is taken up from the soil as an orthophosphate ion.
3. The amount of phosphorus that can be absorbed by the plant is determined by the pH of the soil.
4. The absorption is very slow of phosphorous.
5. Hence, the amount of phosphorous present in the soil is very less compared to the roots.
6. Hence, phosphorous is absorbed actively from the soil i.e. against the concentration gradient.
7. Farmers also use fertilizers rich in phosphorous.
8. This is due to the less availability of phosphorus.