Core Practical 7

• What do plants require to grow, survive, and reproduce?

  A range of nutrients
• What is the role of nitrate in plants?

  Forms DNA and amino acids
• What is calcium used for in plants?

  Forms calcium pectate and aids membrane permeability
• What is magnesium used for in plants?

  Production of chlorophyll
• How can deficiencies of minerals be investigated?

  Using Bryophyllum plants
• How do Bryophyllum plants reproduce?

  Asexually via budding
• What do Bryophyllum plantlets produce?

  Genetically identical ‘daughter’ plantlets
• What equipment is needed for the mineral deficiency investigation?

  • Bryophyllum plantlets
  • Nutrient solutions (various)
  • Measuring cylinder
  • Test tube
  • Test tube rack
  • Tinfoil
• What are the steps in the method for investigating mineral deficiencies?

  1. Fill test tubes with nutrient solutions.
  2. Cover with tinfoil and poke a hole.
  3. Insert roots of Bryophyllum plantlets.
  4. Wrap in tinfoil and place in sunlight.
• What is a biohazard risk in the experiment?

  Contamination
• What safety precaution should be taken for biohazard risks?

  Use disinfectant and wash hands
• What is a risk associated with broken glass?

  Cuts from sharp objects
• What should you do if you get cut by broken glass?

  Elevate cuts and apply pressure
• What is potassium nitrate classified as?

  Flammable, reducing agent
• What safety precaution should be taken with potassium nitrate?

  Keep away from naked flame
• What is iron chloride classified as?

  Irritant when solid
• What should you do if iron chloride contacts your skin?

  Wash with cold water
• What are the effects of magnesium deficiency in plants?

  • Stunted growth
  • Yellowed leaves (due to lack of chlorophyll)
• What are the effects of nitrate deficiency in plants?

  • Yellowed leaves with red-brown cast
  • Restricted protein synthesis (affects chlorophyll)
• What are the effects of calcium deficiency in plants?

  • Stunted growth
  • Weakened stem (due to reduced cell wall support)