GED Science TestLife ScienceMedium
A plant biologist is studying a newly discovered species of carnivorous plant. She observes that these plants grow in nutrient-poor, boggy soils. To supplement their nutrient intake, particularly nitrogen, these plants capture and digest insects. This adaptation is primarily a response to a deficiency in which essential element in their environment?
- AOxygen
- BNitrogen
- CCarbon
- DHydrogen
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Nitrogen
Carnivorous plants typically thrive in soils poor in essential nutrients, especially nitrogen. They digest insects to obtain nitrogen, which is crucial for protein and nucleic acid synthesis.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Oxygen is obtained from the atmosphere for respiration, not from insects.
- C. Carbon is obtained from atmospheric CO2 through photosynthesis, not from insects.
- D. Hydrogen is obtained primarily from water, not from insects.
Nitrogen in Plants
An essential macronutrient for plants, crucial for the synthesis of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids (DNA/RNA), and chlorophyll.
- Component of all amino acids and proteins.
- Required for chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis.
- Deficiency leads to stunted growth and yellowing (chlorosis) of leaves.
Memory trick: Carnivorous plants eat bugs for 'N'itrogen, for 'N'ew growth.