Question map
The three primary soil micro- nutrients are
Explanation
Essential plant nutrients are categorized based on the quantity required for growth. Macronutrients are needed in large amounts, while micronutrients (or trace elements) are required in tiny quantities [3]. The primary macronutrients are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are the major building blocks of fertilizers [4]. Secondary macronutrients include calcium, magnesium, and sulfur [4]. Micronutrients include iron, zinc, manganese, copper, boron, molybdenum, chlorine, and nickel [2]. Although the question uses the term 'micro-nutrients' for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, these are universally classified as the 'primary' nutrients in soil science and fertilizer management [4]. Options 1 and 2 include non-mineral or toxic elements like cadmium, while option 4 mixes micronutrients (boron, zinc) with a secondary macronutrient (magnesium) [4].
Sources
- [2] Indian Economy, Nitin Singhania .(ed 2nd 2021-22) > Chapter 9: Agriculture > FERTILISERS > p. 302
- [3] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > 3) Agricultural sources: > p. 74
- [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plant_nutrition
- [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 25: Agriculture > z. Micronutrientsl > p. 363