Question

Among the macronutrients, the phosphorus (P) contributes favourably to the development of plants with respect to :
(A) Flowering, fruiting including seed formation
(B) Crop maturation
(C) Increasing succulence
(D) Cell division
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (C) and (D) only.
• C. (B), (C) and (D) only.
• D. (A), (B) and (D) only.

Hint:

- Nitrogen (N) is associated with vegetative growth and succulence.
- Phosphorus (P) is linked to energy transfer, root establishment, maturation, and reproduction.
- Potassium (K) is associated with disease resistance, water regulation, and stomatal opening.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Phosphorus (P) is a primary macronutrient essential for plant growth and development.
It is a key component of cellular structures, including nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), phospholipids in cell membranes, and energy transfer molecules like adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each statement regarding the physiological role of phosphorus:
- (A) Flowering, fruiting including seed formation:
Phosphorus plays a crucial role in reproductive growth. It is highly concentrated in pollen grains, flowers, and developing seeds (primarily as phytin).
Adequate phosphorus levels promote robust flowering, fruit set, and seed development.
Therefore, Statement A is correct.
- (B) Crop maturation:
Phosphorus promotes early root growth and accelerates physiological maturity, leading to earlier harvest.
In contrast, excess nitrogen delays crop maturity by promoting prolonged vegetative growth.
Therefore, Statement B is correct.
- (C) Increasing succulence:
Succulence (retaining high water content and developing fleshy, tender tissues) is a primary characteristic of excess Nitrogen (N) application, which thins cell walls.
Phosphorus increases structural integrity and does not promote succulence.
Therefore, Statement C is incorrect.
- (D) Cell division:
Because phosphorus is a fundamental constituent of nucleic acids and phospholipids, it is required in large quantities in meristematic regions for rapid cell division and tissue elongation.
Therefore, Statement D is correct.
Thus, the correct statements are (A), (B), and (D).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct option is (D), which contains (A), (B), and (D) only.