Explore key factors that influence healthy plant growth in agriculture, including nutrients, water, sunlight, and other essential elements. Perfect for learners seeking to understand plant needs in easy terms.
Which factor is most directly responsible for helping plants carry out photosynthesis in an outdoor field?
Explanation: Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis, the process by which plants make their own food. Pesticides are used to control pests but do not aid photosynthesis. Wind helps with pollination and cooling but is not essential for photosynthesis. Soil microorganisms support nutrient uptake but are not a direct energy source.
A farmer notices that crops are wilting during a dry spell. Which plant growth factor is most likely lacking?
Explanation: Water is essential for transporting nutrients and maintaining plant cell structure. Herbicide controls weeds and can even harm crops if misused. Fertilizer may help growth but cannot replace water. Temperature affects growth rates but wilting is typically due to water shortage.
Why is nitrogen considered an important nutrient for plant growth, especially in leafy vegetables like spinach?
Explanation: Nitrogen is vital for chlorophyll production, which makes leaves green and supports photosynthesis. Improving flower color is mainly influenced by other nutrients like phosphorus. Reducing soil pests is not a role of nitrogen. Nitrogen does not affect the amount of sunlight plants receive.
How can excessively low temperatures affect the growth of young tomato plants in a greenhouse?
Explanation: Low temperatures slow down enzyme activity and plant metabolism, reducing overall growth. They do not cause earlier blooming, which is more related to warmth. Increased nutrient uptake generally occurs at optimal temperatures. Cold conditions often reduce pest activity, not increase it.
A soil test shows that a field is too acidic for most crops. How might this affect plant growth?
Explanation: Acidic soil can limit the availability of essential nutrients, leading to poor plant growth. Soil pH does not affect sunlight directly. While some soil issues can affect water absorption, acidity mainly impacts nutrients. There is no consistent link between acidity and the number of soil insects.