Plant Nutrition and Soil Science

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on plant nutrition, soil science, and related issues in agriculture.

What chapters are assigned for Week 10 reading?

Chapter 37: Soil and Plant Nutrition and Chapter 38: Angiosperm Reproduction and Biotechnology.

What are the main resources that plants obtain from soils?

Water and minerals.

What layers make up soil horizons?

A) Topsoil, B) Less organic matter, C) Partially broken-down rock.

What is the texture classification by size for soil particles?

Clay: <0.002mm, Silt: 0.002-0.02mm, Sand: 0.02-2mm.

What constitutes the soil solution?

Water and dissolved minerals in the pores between soil particles.

What is loam?

Loam is the most fertile topsoil, containing equal amounts of sand, silt, and clay.

What role do cations play in soil?

They adhere to negatively charged soil particles, reducing leaching and can be taken up by plant roots.

What happens to anions in soil?

Anions do not bind with soil particles and can be lost from the soil by leaching.

How does humus affect soil properties?

Humus prevents clay packing, retains water, increases cation exchange capacity, and serves as a nutrient reservoir.

What are common issues with agricultural intensification?

Depletes soil mineral content, taxes water reserves, and encourages erosion.

What is the goal of sustainable agriculture?

To use conservation-minded, environmentally safe, and profitable farming methods.

What is a significant issue with irrigation?

Irrigation is a huge drain on water resources and can lead to salinization.

What are organic fertilizers made from?

Manure, fishmeal, or compost, which release nutrients as they decompose.

What can reduce soil erosion?

Planting trees as windbreaks, using cover crops, terracing, and practicing no-till agriculture.

What are essential macronutrients for plants?

Nine essential elements required in relatively large amounts.

What are symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in plants?

Chlorosis, which is the yellowing of leaves.

What defines the mobility of nutrients within plants?

Mobile nutrients affect older organs more, while less mobile nutrients affect younger organs.

What is hydroponic culture used for?

To determine which chemical elements are essential for plant growth.

What percentage of a plant's fresh mass is water?

80–90%.

What are the effects of excessive fertilizer use?

Excess nutrients can be leached from the soil and cause algal blooms in water bodies.