Biology, Eighth Edition (Raven)

Chapter 39: Plant Nutrition and Soils

Learning Outcomes

• Explain how plants use energy.
• Differentiate between macronutrients and micronutrients in terms of identity, amounts required by plants, and their physiological importance.
• Understand how soils differ in term of particle size and ability to hold water. Why is it necessary to fertilize soils in which crop plants are grown?
• Describe how hydroponics may be used in understanding plant nutrition.
• Describe the composition of soil and how it contributes to plant nutrition.
• Describe two potential outcomes of an increase in atmospheric CO2.
• Explain the process of symbiosis and describe several examples of symbiotic relationships.
• Explain how symbiotic bacteria and fungi enhance plant growth.
• Explain the nature and significance of phytoremediation.