NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Plant roots absorb potassium ions from the soil and transport them in the xylem via the transpiration stream to the shoots.

Detailed explanation-2: -Potassium (K+) is of paramount importance in plant cell physiology. K+ is an essential macronutrient that fulfills critical functions related to enzyme activation, osmotic adjustment, turgor generation, cell expansion, regulation of membrane electric potential, and pH homeostasis (Hawkesford et al., 2012).

Detailed explanation-3: -Typical sources include mined rock powders and wood ash. Of course, manures, compost and other organic materials are potassium sources, too, because even though the concentration of potassium in them is pretty low, typically a lot of material is applied to a field.

Detailed explanation-4: -Potassium is the third key nutrient of commercial fertilizers. It helps strengthen plants’ abilities to resist disease and plays an important role in increasing crop yields and overall quality. Potassium also protects the plant when the weather is cold or dry, strengthening its root system and preventing wilt.