Mineral Nutrition Question 2
2. In which of the following forms is iron absorbed by plants?
[2018]
(a) Ferric
(b) Ferrous
(c) Both ferric and ferrous
(d) Free element
Show Answer
Answer : a
Hints & Solution
(a) Iron is absorbed by plants in the form of ferric ions. Plants uptake iron in its oxidized forms, $Fe^{2+}$ (ferrous form) or $Fe^{3+}$ (ferric form). Another mechanism involves the release of protons $(H^{+})$and reductants by the plant roots, to lower $pH$ levels in root zone. Iron is considered a micro-nutrient because only small amounts are required to aid in normal plant growth. Plants can suffer iron deficiency with symptoms of chlorosis and stunted growth, but plants can also take in too much iron, especially under certain growing conditions.
