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Chapter 11: Problem 5

5\. What are the main things that plant roots must obtain from soil? Name and describe a process (natural or unnatural) that can keep plants from obtaining the amounts of each of these things they need for survival.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Plant roots obtain water, oxygen, and minerals from the soil. Soil erosion (a natural process) and over-farming (an unnatural process) can prevent plants from obtaining these essential nutrients.

Step by step solution

01

Identification of Nutrients

Plants primarily obtain three types of nutrients from the soil: water (H2O), oxygen (O2), and minerals. Minerals include elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are essential for plant metabolism and development.
02

Description of Natural Process

One natural process that can prevent plants from obtaining these nutrients is soil erosion. This process involves the removal of topsoil, which is rich in nutrients, by natural elements like wind and water. When this occurs, plant roots have less access to the nutrients they need.
03

Description of Unnatural Process

An example of an unnatural process is over-farming, which depletes the soil of nutrients over time. If soil is continuously used for agriculture without being allowed to restore its nutrient content, the plants that grow in that soil will be unable to obtain the nutrients they need for survival.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

What are at least two levels at which soil conservation must be practiced? Give an example of what is being done at each level.

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