In what form do plants absorb nitrogen?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Nitrate

Plants primarily absorb nitrogen in the form of nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) from the soil. These nitrates are then converted into amino acids and proteins within the plant for growth and development.

• Nitrogen is essential for plant growth as it forms the building blocks for proteins and chlorophyll.
• The process of converting nitrogen into nitrates is carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria present in the soil.
• Nitrate ions are easily absorbed by the roots of plants from the soil.
• Nitrogen is often added to soils in the form of fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate or calcium nitrate.
• Nitrate helps plants in cellular growth and the synthesis of important enzymes.
• Plants can absorb nitrates through active transport mechanisms in their root cells.

• Ammonia : Ammonia (NH₃) is one of the nitrogen forms in the soil but is less commonly absorbed by plants directly.
• Nitrite : Nitrites (NO₂⁻) are intermediate products of nitrogen transformation and are generally toxic to plants, so plants typically absorb nitrates.
• Nitrogen gas : Nitrogen gas (N₂) is inert and cannot be directly absorbed by plants; it needs to be converted by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil before being taken up by plants.