Which element is a major plant nutrient in addition to nitrogen and phosphorus?

Which element is a major plant nutrient in addition to nitrogen and phosphorus?

• A. iron
• B. potassium
• C. calcium
• D. zinc

Answer: (B)

Plants require nutrients in different amounts, and the major plant nutrients are the ones needed in the largest quantities. The three primary macronutrients are nitrogen and phosphorus, and the third one is potassium. Potassium plays several key roles: it helps regulate water balance in plant cells, activates many enzymes, and supports processes like photosynthesis and sugar transport. This is why potassium is considered a major nutrient alongside nitrogen and phosphorus. Iron and zinc are needed, but in much smaller amounts, so they’re classified as micronutrients. Calcium is also essential, but it falls into the secondary macronutrient group rather than the primary trio. So the element that fits as the major nutrient in addition to nitrogen and phosphorus is potassium.

Plants require nutrients in different amounts, and the major plant nutrients are the ones needed in the largest quantities. The three primary macronutrients are nitrogen and phosphorus, and the third one is potassium. Potassium plays several key roles: it helps regulate water balance in plant cells, activates many enzymes, and supports processes like photosynthesis and sugar transport. This is why potassium is considered a major nutrient alongside nitrogen and phosphorus.

Iron and zinc are needed, but in much smaller amounts, so they’re classified as micronutrients. Calcium is also essential, but it falls into the secondary macronutrient group rather than the primary trio. So the element that fits as the major nutrient in addition to nitrogen and phosphorus is potassium.