Plants require several essential nutrients for proper growth and development. These nutrients are divided into three main groups based on the quantity in which plants need them:
Primary nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are required in the largest...
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Plants require several essential nutrients for proper growth and development. These nutrients are divided into three main groups based on the quantity in which plants need them:
Primary nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are required in the largest amounts and are often supplemented through fertilizers.
Secondary nutrients: Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Sulphur (S) are needed in moderate amounts but are still essential for plant health.
Micronutrients: Elements like iron, zinc, manganese, copper, and boron are required in very small quantities.
In this question, Sulphur (S) is classified as a secondary nutrient. It plays several important roles in plants:
Essential for the synthesis of amino acids (building blocks of proteins).
Helps in the formation of chlorophyll, which is required for photosynthesis.
Improves seed production and oil content in crops like mustard and soybean.
Aids in enzyme activation and vitamin formation.
The other options are primary nutrients:
Nitrogen (N): Promotes leaf growth and green coloration.
Phosphorus (P): Supports root development, flowering, and energy transfer.
Sulphur is absorbed by plants mainly as sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻) from the soil. A deficiency of sulphur can lead to yellowing of young leaves (chlorosis), reduced growth, and poor crop yield.
Thus, among the given options, Sulphur is the correct answer as a secondary plant nutrient, while nitrogen and phosphorus belong to the primary nutrient category.
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