Phosphorus Quiz

What is the original source of all phosphorus in soils?

• Iron phosphates

• Organic matter

• Apatite

• Clay particles

What process converts organic phosphorus to inorganic phosphate?

• Precipitation

• Immobilisation

• Mineralisation

• Desorption

Which of the following is a significant way soil phosphorus is lost?

• Soil compaction

• Soil erosion

• Soil salinization

• Soil pH changes

What is the optimum soil pH range for phosphorus availability?

• 4.0 to 5.0

• 5.5 to 6.5

• 7.5 to 8.5

• 6.0 to 7.0

What type of transporters are involved in phosphorus uptake in plants?

• Symplastic and apoplastic transporters

• High-affinity and low-affinity Pi transporters

• Cation and anion transporters

• Active and passive transporters

What happens to phosphorus at lower pH levels?

• It is readily absorbed by plants

• It precipitates with calcium

• It binds with aluminum or iron compounds

• It becomes more soluble

What is the role of mycorrhizal fungi in phosphorus uptake?

• They inhibit phosphorus absorption

• They provide nutrient access to host plants

• They increase soil acidity

• They decompose organic matter

What is the primary consequence of phosphorus fixation in soils?

• Increased phosphorus solubility

• Limited movement of phosphorus

• Enhanced crop yield

• Decreased soil acidity

What is the main effect of liming acid soils?

• Maintains optimal pH for phosphorus

• Increases soil salinity

• Increases organic matter content

• Decreases phosphorus availability