Which of the following is a true statement regarding mineral nutrients in soils and their implication for primary productivity?
A) Globally, phosphorous availability is most limiting to primary productivity.
B) Adding a nonlimiting nutrient will stimulate primary productivity.
C) Adding more of a limiting nutrient will increase primary productivity, indefinitely.
D) Phosphorous is sometimes unavailable to producers due to leaching.
E) Alkaline soils are more productive than acidic soils.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phosphorous is often unavailable to producers due to leaching, which washes it away and makes it inaccessible for plants. Therefore, adding more phosphorous to the soil may increase productivity up to a certain point, but it will not continue indefinitely. Furthermore, globally, phosphorous availability is often the most limiting factor for primary productivity. Adding a nonlimiting nutrient (answer B) will not necessarily stimulate primary productivity, as the plant may already have sufficient amounts of that nutrient. Choice E is incorrect, as the acidity or alkalinity of soil may affect nutrient availability but does not inherently determine productivity.

Which of the Following Is a True Statement Regarding Mineral