Question

Which of the following is mobile mineral element in plants
A. Ca
B. Mo
C. Cu
D. Fe

Answer 1

Mobile minerals are the minerals that transport from one place to another throughout the plants. These minerals transport from source to other parts where they require.

Complete step by step answer: Option A: Calcium is absorbed in the form of calcium ions (Ca2) from the soil. Calcium is required by meristematic and differentiating tissues. It accumulates in older leaves. It is immobile mineral. It does not translocate from one place to another. It is required for synthesis of cell walls during cell division , particularly as a calcium spectator in the middle lamella.
Option B: Plants absorb Molybdenum from the soil in the form of molybdate ions. This mineral is required in every part of plants. It translocates throughout the plant. This is more compellingly found in roots. It is part of some enzymes like nitrogenase and nitrate reductase, both of which participate in nitrogen metabolism. It is essential for nitrogen-fixation. It is a mobile mineral.
Option C: Plants absorb copper as cupric ions from the soil. It is required in every part of plants. It is immobile mineral. It is essential for the overall metabolism in plants.
Option D: Iron is required in large amounts in plants. Plants obtain iron in the form of ferric ions. It is also required everywhere in the plants. It is essential for the formation of chlorophyll and other pigments.
So, the correct option is (B).

Note: Minerals are divided into two broad categories based on their quantitative requirements. These are: Micronutrients: Micronutrients required by plants in small amounts. They are mostly required in the functioning of enzymes. Since, micronutrients are required in traces, they are also called trace elements. They are right in number- iron, manganese, copper, molybdenum, zinc, boron, chlorine and nickel.
Macronutrients: These are present in large amounts in plant tissues. These macronutrients are nine in number – carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, potassium, calcium and magnesium.