Question
A plant's leaves have all turned yellow, Which mineral ion is it lacking?
Answer
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(194 Votes)
William
Veteran · Tutor for 11 years
Answer
Nitrogen
Explanation
The yellowing of a plant's leaves usually signals a nutritional deficiency, often a specific mineral ion. In plants, different leaf discolorations are often symptomatic of particular deficiencies. Yellowing, or chlorosis, is typically due caused by the lack of necessary chlorophyll for photosynthesis. A common mineral deficiency leading to this condition is a lack of nitrogen, as it's an essential component of chlorophyll and proteins. However, deficiencies in other essential minerals such as iron, manganese, or magnesium might also manifest as leaf yellowing. Therefore, the yellow discoloration of the plant's leaves alludes its substantial need for adequate or increased intake of one of these metal ions.