RP7

• Nutrients required by plants

  • Nitrate
  • Calcium
  • Magnesium
• Nitrate


  Used to form DNA and amino acids
• Calcium


  Used to form calcium pectate for the middle lamella and in membrane permeability
• Magnesium


  Used in the production of chlorophyll
• Bryophyllum plants


  • Reproduce asexually via budding, which produces genetically identical 'daughter' plantlets
• Nutrient solutions used


  • All minerals present
  • Without nitrogen
  • Without magnesium
  • Without calcium
  • Without any nutrients
• Investigating plant mineral deficiencies

  1. Use measuring cylinder to fill test tubes with nutrient solutions

  2. Cover top of test tube with tinfoil and poke hole

  3. Push roots of Bryophyllum plantlets through hole into solution

  4. Wrap test tubes in tinfoil and place under sunny window
• Magnesium deficiency causes stunted growth and yellowed leaves
• Nitrate deficiency causes yellowed leaves with red-brown cast
• Calcium deficiency causes stunted growth and weakened stem
• Hazards


  • Biohazard
  • Broken glass
  • Potassium nitrate
  • Iron chloride
  • Potassium sulphate
• Safety precautions


  • Use disinfectant, wash hands
  • Take care when handling glassware
  • Keep away from naked flame, avoid contact with metals and other flammable substances
  • Wear eye protection, keep away from naked flames
  • Wear eye protection
• Emergency procedures


  • Seek assistance
  • Elevate cuts, apply pressure, do not remove glass, seek medical assistance
  • Put out fire, seek assistance
  • Wash eyes and skin with cold water
  • Wash eyes and skin with cold water