Question

Which of the following is the most likely reason for the difference in leaf growth? The phosphorus-starved plant was unable to synthesize both the required proteins and lipids, limiting growth. A The phosphorus-starved plant was unable to synthesize both the required proteins and carbohydrates, limiting growth. B The phosphorus-starved plant was unable to synthesize both the required nucleic acids and lipids, limiting growth. C The phosphorus-starved plant was unable to synthesize both the required carbohydrates and nucleic acids, limiting growth.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B: The phosphorus-starved plant was unable to synthesize both the required nucleic acids and lipids, limiting growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

Phosphorus is a vital component in plants because it is present in the RNA and DNA of plants, elements that helps in the storage of information on how certain functions should be performed by plants. These functions include protein synthesis, sugar metabolism, and lipids and nucleic acid synthesis. Thus in the absence of phosphorus, growth will be limited because lipids and nucleic acid would not be synthesized.