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What are the differences between macronutrients and micronutrients?

  • A Macronutrients are mostly organic compounds; micronutrients are mostly inorganic ions in form under most conditions encountered
  • B Macronutrients are needed in large amounts (>0.1% dry weight); micronutrients are needed in trace amounts (<0.1%)
  • C Macronutrients consist mainly of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ions specifically as frequently observed in practice
  • D Micronutrients can become toxic to most plant species at unusually high concentrations in many documented cases

Correct answer: B. Macronutrients are needed in large amounts (>0.1% dry weight); micronutrients are needed in trace amounts (<0.1%)

Explanation: Macronutrients (needed >0.1% dry weight): C, H, O, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S. Micronutrients (needed <0.01% dry weight): Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo, B, Cl, Ni. Essential for specific enzymatic and structural functions.

Concept context

Essential mineral elements, their roles and deficiency symptoms. Nitrogen fixation and soil nutrition.

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