Zaymiey

🔬 Biology  ·  Mineral Nutrition  ·  NEET

What is the role of sulfur in plants?

Answer: Component of some amino acids (cysteine, methionine) and proteins.

  • A Cross-links pectin polymers within the cell wall structure
  • B Component of some amino acids (cysteine, methionine) and proteins
  • C Regulates guard cell turgor pressure to control stomatal opening
  • D Fixes atmospheric nitrogen gas into ammonia within root nodules

Correct answer: B. Component of some amino acids (cysteine, methionine) and proteins

Explanation: Sulfur is a component of amino acids cysteine and methionine, and thus of many proteins. It is also part of coenzymes (CoA) and vitamins. Deficiency causes chlorosis in young leaves (similar to N deficiency).

Nitrogen Cycle: Key ConversionsN₂ (air)N-fixation(Rhizobium, nitrogenase)NH₃/NH₄⁺nitrificationNO₃⁻denitrificationback to N₂leghaemoglobin protectsnitrogenase from O₂

Atmospheric N₂ is fixed into ammonia by nitrogen-fixing bacteria (protected from oxygen by leghaemoglobin in root nodules), converted to nitrate via nitrification for plant uptake, and eventually returned to the atmosphere as N₂ via denitrification, completing the cycle.

Concept context

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

Read the full Mineral Nutrition notes →