Question
Question: What would happen if solutions were poorly aerated in hydroponics?...
What would happen if solutions were poorly aerated in hydroponics?
Solution
In the absence of soil hydroponics is employed for growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions in water.
Complete step-by-step answer:
The limitation of oxygen can grow large plants extremely difficult. Oxygen reacts with carbohydrates to produce ATP, which is the primary chemical used to fuel biochemical processes. Several functions that require energy, like the absorption of nutrients and the production of amino acids, need ATP. Larger plants need systems in which the availability of oxygen is not a limitation as they have much larger nutrient and energy requirements. Roots are periodically wet and exposed to air so they need good systems of proper oxygen supply.
The cells of the plant will die when the cells in the roots do not have access to oxygen and this can cause the entire plant to die as well. This is why it is the main objectivity to make sure the soil and/or nutrient solution is correctly aerated to maintain enough oxygen for the plant cells found in the root mass.
Additional Information: The plants to grow in a hydroponic system are:
-Lettuce- These plants have a shallow root system and short above-ground height so no need to set guides for the plant. It grows in about 30 days and the best pH is around 6 to 7.
-Spinach- grows quickly, especially when using methods that keep the nutrient solution highly oxygenated. Far less water is used here than the ground garden. It grows in about 40 days and the best pH is around 6 to 7.5.
-Strawberries- It grows in about 60 days and the best pH is around 5.5 to 6.2.
-Bell Peppers- 18 hours of light for these plants each day should be provided. It grows in about 90 days and the best pH is around 6 to 6.5.
Note: For increasing dissolved oxygen levels in hydroponics, add concentrated hydrogen peroxide to the reservoir, use an air pump in combination with air stones, also you can use a stirring pump and make sure to expose the surface to atmospheric oxygen.