Agronomy Degree Practice Exam

What element is required in large amounts by peanuts?

1. Calcium

2. Iron

3. Zinc

4. Aluminum

The correct answer is: Calcium

Peanuts require a significant amount of calcium for various physiological processes. Calcium plays a vital role in plant structure as it is a key component of cell walls, helping to maintain cell integrity and stability. It also acts as a signaling molecule in plant cells, impacting processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient transport, and enzyme activation. Additionally, adequate calcium levels help prevent disorders such as blossom end rot and other physiological issues associated with nutrient deficiencies in peanuts. While iron, zinc, and aluminum are important micronutrients for plant health, they are required in smaller quantities compared to calcium. Iron is crucial for chlorophyll synthesis and energy transfer during photosynthesis but does not play as vital a role in the structural aspects of peanuts as calcium does. Zinc is essential for enzyme function and growth regulation but is again needed in much lesser amounts. Aluminum, although it can influence soil properties and plant growth in certain conditions, is typically not a required nutrient for peanuts. Therefore, calcium stands out as the essential element needed in large quantities for optimal growth and development of peanuts.