[Campbell Biology P.859] Which of the following statements correctly describes an essential ... | Practice Question
Which of the following statements correctly describes an essential element and the primary method used to identify it in plants?
A: An essential element is required for plant survival, and it is identified by observing growth in various soil types.
B: An essential element is required for a plant to complete its life cycle and reproduce, and it is identified using hydroponic culture.
C: An essential element is any chemical element found in a plant, and it is identified through chemical analysis of plant tissues.
D: An essential element is a macronutrient only, and its identification involves genetic modification techniques.
Explanation
The text clearly states that 'A chemical element is considered an essential element only if it is required for a plant to complete its life cycle and reproduce.' It also specifies that 'To determine which chemical elements are essential, researchers use hydroponic culture'.