Which is a limiting nutrient for plant growth?a. waterb. nitrogenc. carbond. oxygen

Step 1: Define the Problem

Identify which nutrient is considered a limiting factor for plant growth from the given options.

Step 2: Break Down the Problem

Examine each option to determine its role in plant growth:

• a. Water
• b. Nitrogen
• c. Carbon
• d. Oxygen

Step 3: Apply Relevant Concepts

• Water: Essential for photosynthesis and nutrient transport but not typically a limiting nutrient.
• Nitrogen: A crucial component of amino acids and proteins, often a limiting nutrient in soil.
• Carbon: Abundant in the atmosphere as CO2, generally not limiting.
• Oxygen: Required for respiration but not typically limiting for plants.

Step 4: Analysis, Verify and Summarize

• Nitrogen is often the most limiting nutrient in terrestrial ecosystems because it is required in large amounts for plant growth and is not always available in sufficient quantities in the soil.

Final Answer

b. nitrogen