Mineral Nutrition

Question

Which element is a component of chlorophyll and thus essential for photosynthesis?

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Chlorophyll Structure**: The chlorophyll molecule consists of a porphyrin 'head' and a phytol 'tail'.
2. **Central Atom**: A single atom of **Magnesium ($Mg^{2+}$)** is located at the center of the porphyrin ring.
3. **Function**: Magnesium is essential for the stabilization of the ring structure and is crucial for the absorption of light energy.
4. **Deficiency**: Lack of magnesium leads to **interveinal chlorosis** (yellowing of leaves), especially in older leaves, as the plant cannot synthesize enough chlorophyll.

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Mineral Nutrition

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