Lab Worksheet 3

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 1
I. INTRODUCTION
Just like humans, plants need nutrients to survive and thrive in harsh
environments. According to Huber and Wilhelm (1988), plant nutrition is an
important component of disease control. The capacity of host plants to continue
growing and/or producing in spite of infections serves as a proxy for their disease
tolerance.
Each nutrient plays a specific role in plant growth and development.

Different plants have different nutrient needs. Too little fertilizer can lead to
nutrient deficiencies, which can cause plants to become stunted, yellowed, and
weak. Put too much fertilizer on them, and it will also cause them to burn and die.
Without the right nutrients and the proper amount, plants will become weak and
eventually die.
That's why plant nutrients are divided based on the quantities required by
plants. Macronutrients are nutrients that plants require in large quantities. They are
composed of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur,
calcium, and magnesium. Micronutrients are nutrients that plants require in small
quantities. They are boron, manganese, copper, zinc, chloride, and
molybdenum. Iron is typically considered a micronutrient, meaning that plants
require it in small quantities. However, there are some cases where plants may
require more iron than is typical, and in these cases, iron can be considered a
macronutrient.
Plants get carbon from the air, hydrogen and oxygen from water, and
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from the soil. One of the main constraints on
plant growth is the availability of nutrients in the soil. Plants won't be able to reach
their full potential in nutrient-deficient soil.
The three main nutrients that plants need are nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium.
Nitrogen is very important in the metabolic pathway of all plants. All vital
processes in plants are associated with protein, of which nitrogen is an essential
constituent. Unfortunately, it is the most lacking vital plant nutrient in the world.
Even though our atmosphere comprises 78% nitrogen in the form of gas, plants
don't have the enzymes to use it. That's why when N2 diffuses into the soil, different

bacterial species transform it into ammonium ions (NH4 +) that plants may use
(Leghari et al., 2016).
Phosphorus plays a vital role in ATP production. ATP, or adenosine

triphosphate, powers all of the cells' activities and metabolic processes in plants.
Phosphorus deficiency can have a significant impact on ATP production in plants.
When plants are deficient in phosphorus, they cannot produce as much ATP,
which can lead to a decrease in photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and overall
plant growth (Khan et al., 2023).
Meanwhile, potassium is the third most abundant mineral nutrient in plants,

after nitrogen and phosphorus. Potassium is a cation that maintains the electrical
balance in plant cells. It is required for the opening and closing of stomata and
as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in plant metabolism, activation of
enzymes involved in the Calvin cycle, cell division, and protein synthesis.
Potassium-deficient plants are often stunted with yellow or brown leaves and
have weak stems (Xu et al., 2020).
Together with enzymes, both macronutrients and micronutrients are present

and aid in the normal operation of metabolic processes to continue plants'
growth and development. These components play a part in helping plants
endure stress, manage diseases, or develop strategies for evading toxic
substances.
However, it is also important to note that excessive application of nutrients

may lead to some disadvantages. For example, when plants are overfertilized,
excess nutrients can weaken their defense and make them more attractive to
pests and diseases. Sometimes, excessive application can cause ground and
surface water pollution, which can cause algal blooms due to eutrophication.
Third-year biology students are tasked with investigating the effects of

nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus in a certain crop. Mung bean plants are a
good choice for investigating macronutrients such as nitrogen and potassium
because they are relatively easy to grow and maintain. They are also relatively
fast-growing, which means that you can see the effects of macronutrient
deficiencies or excesses relatively quickly.

By comparing the growth and development of mung bean plants with a
control, you can gain a better understanding of the roles of nitrogen and
potassium in plant growth and how controlling the amount of fertilizer applied
can contribute to nutrient toxicity.
II. OBJECTIVES
The general objective of this research is to investigate the effects of nutrient

levels on mung bean plants' growth and development, with a focus on the role
of nitrogen and potassium. Specifically, it aims to:
1. Determine the effects of different nutrient levels on plant growth and
health by comparing treated plants to a control group.
2. Understand the role of nitrogen and potassium in plant nutrition.
3. Analyze the data collected from the experiment and to draw
conclusions about the importance of balance nutrition for plant
development.
III. MATERIALS
Poly bags were employed for the potted mung beans, and a spray bottle
was utilized to administer nutrient solutions, including nitrogen and potassium. A
control group was established, which did not receive additional nutrients.
Watering the mung beans was done using a measuring cup, and their height was
measured with a measuring tape. To record observations and data collected
from the mung beans, a notebook and pen were used.
IV. PROCEDURES
To prepare the plants for the experiment, the potted mung bean plants
were initially divided into three distinct groups: the K-group (comprising K1, K2,
and K3), the N-group (consisting of N1, N2, and N3), and the control group (C1,
C2 and C3). Each of these groups received a different nutrient solution, except
for the control group. The mung bean plants were of similar size and were
positioned in a well-lit area to ensure they received adequate sunlight.

Throughout the course of approximately 22 days, the height of the plants
was meticulously measured at regular two-day intervals using a measuring tape.
To maintain consistent growth conditions, the potted mung beans were watered
as needed, with a measuring cup employed to guarantee a uniform distribution
of water. On the 18th day, nutrient solutions (potassium and nitrogen) were
applied to the mung bean plants, except for the control group, which continued
without these added nutrients.

V. PRESENTATION OF DATA
NUMBER OF DAY(S) OBSERVATIONS

0
The planted mung bean seeds in each
set-up (control group, potassium
group, and nitrogen group) showed
no visible growth on the surface. The
soil appeared undisturbed, with no
signs of the plant breaking through the
soil.
The seedlings from each set-ups

started to emerge from the soil, with an
average height of about an inch.
4
On its 4th day, it is noticeable that the
sprouts have significantly increased in
length compared to the previous days.
The cotyledons, which are the initial
seed leaves, appear to have
expanded and turned a slightly
deeper shade of green.
The mung beans were repotted to

avoid nutrient competition. The plants
have significantly increased in height,
which is about 4 inches in both set-ups
and have also developed prominent
green leaves.

10
On day 10 of observing mung beans’
growth, the plants have further
increased in height, with control group
recorded with the highest average
length of 6.8 inches. Additionally, each
plant in every set-up has 2 green
leaves.
12
By day 12 of observing the growth of
mung beans, it continued to grow
taller, wherein control group remained
to have the tallest average plant high
(7 inches), while potassium group got
the lowest with an average height of
5.6 inches. And the leaves within each
set-up had developed even more,
with a lush and healthy appearance.
14
Rotting of roots were observed in every

set-up due to the continuous rainfall,
leading to the death of some pants.
While the length of plants didn’t
change that much and its leaf number
remained the same.
16
The heavy rains within the past few

days, affected the growth of the plant,
leading to almost no change in plant
height.

18
The N-group were treated with
nitrogen, whereas potassium was
applied to the K-group and control
group received no treatment.
Furthermore, additional leaves were
observed in control group and K-
group, while number of leaves in N-
group remained the same.
20
After two days of application of
fertilizers, it was observed that some of
the treated plants died, in contrast, the
control group remained healthy with
an average height of 7.7 inches. While
N-group and K-group received 4.3 and
2.3 respectively, due to the wilting of
plants after the application of the said
fertilizers.
22
On the 22nd day, the growth of mung

beans in the treatment group has
made no change at all. While the
control group continued to grow,
reaching an average height of 8.3
inches.

Table 1. Height of Mung Beans with Nitrogen and Potassium for 22 Days
PLANT HEIGHT (INCHES)
Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day
0 2 4 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22
Control 1 0 1.5 3.2 4.2 6 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.2 6.5 7
Control 2 0 0.9 3.6 6 7.9 8 8 8.1 8.5 8.5 9
Control 3 0 1.2 3.9 4.3 6.5 7 7 7.2 7.8 8 9
N-1 0 1.4 3.8 4.5 5.8 6.1 6.1 6.2 6.5 6.8 7
N-2 0 1.6 3.5 4.2 5.3 5.8 5.8 5.9 6 6 6.3
N-3 0 1.2 3.2 4.5 5.6 5.6 5.9 6 6.3 0 0
K-1 0 1.6 2.9 3.6 4.6 4.7 4.7 4.7 5 0 0
K-2 0 1.8 4 4.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 6.2 6.4 6.7 7
K-3 0 1.1 4.2 5.6 6.1 6.5 6.6 6.8 6.8 7 7.3

Figure 1. Average Height of Mung Beans with Nitrogen and Potassium
for 22 Days
7
Height of Monggo (inches)
0
Day 0 Day 2 Day 4 Day 8 Day 10 Day 12 Day 14 Day 16 Day 18 Day 20 Day 22
control nitrogen pottasium
The figure shows the average height of mung beans over 22 days under different
treatments: the control group, the group treated with nitrogen, and the group
treated with potassium. The data is recorded at various time intervals, from Day 0
to Day 22, and the values represent the height of the mung beans in inches. The
control group started at a height of 0 on Day 0, which is the initial height of the
mung beans . Over the course of 22 days, the control group exhibited steady
growth, with the plants reaching an average height of 8.3 inches by Day 22. The
growth appeared to be relatively consistent with a slight increase over time. On
the other hand, the nitrogen-treated group also started at a height of 0 on Day 0.
Initially, the growth in this group was slightly faster compared to the control group,
reaching 1.4 inches by Day 2. However, after Day 2, the growth rate started to
slow down. And by Day 22, the plants in this group have an average height of 4.3
inches, which is the lowest among the three groups, since the mung beans under
this treatment started to wither, and eventually died by day 20, leading to the
decrease in the total average height of the plant.

Moreover, like the other groups, the potassium-treated group started at a
height of 0 on Day 0. The growth in this group followed a pattern similar to the
nitrogen group, with faster initial growth up to Day 2 (1.5 inches) and then a
decrease in the growth rate. The application of potassium within the mung beans
have caused a significant decrease within the plants’ average height, due to the
wilting and dying of mung beans . By Day 22, the plants in the potassium group
have an average height of 4.7 inches., which is considerably less than the control
group.
Overall, it appeared that the control group showed the most consistent
and substantial growth over the 22-day period. The nitrogen and potassium
treatments initially seem to stimulate some growth, but this growth was not
sustained, and by the end of the observation period, both treated groups have
lower heights compared to the control group. These results suggested that, in this
experiment, neither nitrogen nor potassium had a positive long-term effect on the
growth of mung beans.

Table 2. Number of Leaves of Mung Beans Treated with Potassium and Nitrogen for 22 Days
No.of Leaves
Control 1 0 0 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 5
Control 2 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
Control 3 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 6
N-1 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 5
N-2 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2
N-3 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0 0
K-1 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0 0
K-2 0 0 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 5 5
K-3 0 0 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 6 8

Figure 2. Average Number of Leaves of Mung Beans Treated with Potassium and
Nitrogen for 22 Days
4.5
3.5
3
No. of Leaves
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
Control Nitrogen Potassium
The data provided represents the average number of leaves in different

experimental setups (Control, Nitrogen-treated group, and Potassium-treated
group) over a 22-day period. At the outset on Day 0, all setups had no leaves,
with an average leaf count of 0. As the experiment progressed, leaf growth was
observed. By Day 4, each setup had an average of 2 leaves, and this number
remained constant until Day 12. However, starting from Day 14, a divergence in
leaf growth became evident. The Control setup continued to exhibit gradual leaf
growth, reaching 4 leaves by Day 22. In contrast, number of leaves under
nitrogen-treated group remained the same from day 4 until day 22, since number
of mung beans died after the application of nitrogen. Additionally, the potassium-
treated group displayed accelerated leaf growth compared to the nitrogen
group. Similarly, after the application of potassium, some of the plants died,
affecting the total average number of leaves of the plant.

This study suggests that while nitrogen and potassium can enhance leaf
growth in mung bean plants, there is a delicate balance to strike between their
beneficial effects and the potential harm they can cause, including plant
mortality. Careful consideration of nutrient application strategies is necessary to
achieve optimal growth without compromising plant health. Further research is
suggested to refine nutrient application methods and concentrations for mung
bean cultivation.

Table 3. Leaf Color of Mung Beans Treated with Potassium and Nitrogen for 22 Days
Day 2 Day 4 Day 8 Day 10 Day 12 Day 14 Day 16 Day 18 Day 20 Day 22
(w/ fertilizer)
Control Absence Absence Light Dark Light Light Yellow- Yellow-green Light Dark
1 of Leaf of Leaf green green green green green Green green
Control Absence Absence Dark Dark Dark Light Yellow- Yellow-green Yellow- Light
2 of Leaf of Leaf green green green green green green green
Control Absence Absence Light Dark Dark Light Yellow- Yellow-green Light Dark
3 of Leaf of Leaf green green green green green Green green
N-1 Absence Absence Light Dark Dark Light Yellow- Yellow-green Light Light
of Leaf of Leaf green green green green green Green green
N-2 Absence Absence Dark Dark Dark Dark Yellow- Yellow Light Light
N-3 Absence Absence Dark Dark Dark Dark Yellow Yellow Absence Absence
of Leaf of Leaf green green green green of Leaf of Leaf
K-1 Absence Absence Light Dark Dark Dark Yellow- Yellow Absence Absence
of Leaf of Leaf green green green green green of Leaf of Leaf
K-2 Absence Absence Light Dark Dark Light Yellow Yellow Light Dark
of Leaf of Leaf green green green green Green green
K-3 Absence Absence Light Dark Dark Dark Yellow- Yellow Light Light

The provided data offers a visual representation of how mung bean plants'
leaves evolve over a 22-day period, with a particular focus on leaf color and
growth status. On Day 2, all groups, including the Control, Nitrogen-treated (N),
and Potassium-treated (K) groups, exhibited an absence of leaves, indicating
that visible leaves had not yet formed. By Day 4, a significant change occurred
as the plants in all groups displayed dark green leaves, suggesting the onset of
leaf development, which appeared consistent across most groups.
From Day 8 to Day 14, variations in leaf color became apparent. The
Control and Nitrogen-treated groups showcased light green leaves, while the
Potassium-treated group displayed dark green leaves. These variations may be
attributed to the different amount of sunlight absorbed by the mung beans. As
we progress to Day 16 to Day 20, leaves continue to evolve in color, ranging from
light green to yellow-green in the Control and Nitrogen-treated groups. The
Potassium-treated group, however, exhibited a more diverse range of leaf colors,
including yellow-green and yellow, indicating differing responses to potassium
treatment.
On Day 22, leaf colors remained diverse across setups. The Control and
Nitrogen-treated groups maintained light green to dark green leaves, suggesting
ongoing leaf development. In contrast, the Potassium-treated group exhibited a
broader spectrum of leaf colors, encompassing dark green and light green.
Furthermore, some plants in the Potassium-treated and Nitrogen-treated group
had no leaves due to plant mortality, revealing variability in how mung beans
respond to the fertilizers.
In summary, this data reveals the transformation of mung bean leaves in

appearance and color over the 22-day observation period. Specific treatments,
such as Nitrogen and Potassium, appear to influence leaf development and
coloration, albeit with variations. It's important to consider that multiple factors
can contribute to these results, including nutrient levels, individual plant responses,
and experimental conditions. Further investigation would be necessary to draw
more precise conclusions regarding the effects of these treatments on mung
bean leaf development.

VI. DISCUSSION OF GUIDED QUESTIONS
1. What is the purpose of having a control group in this experiment?
The sample group consisted of Mung bean plants that were not given any
fertilizer in the control group. Comparing the growth and development of the
experimental groups to that of the control group allows researchers to determine
if the fertilizer has a significant effect or impact on plant growth. Without a control
group, it would be difficult to determine the actual effects (magnitude) of
nitrogen and potassium fertilizer on the plants, or whether the differences in
growth and development between the experimental and control groups are
simply due to chance. The control group also ensures fairness and impartiality in
conducting the experiment.
2. Describe the role of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium in

plant nutrition.
Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium are essential

macronutrients for plant growth. They are required in large quantities by plants
and play a vital role in many plant processes.
Nitrogen is very important in the metabolic pathway of all plants. All vital
processes in plants are associated with protein, of which nitrogen is an essential
constituent. Unfortunately, it is the most lacking vital plant nutrient in the world.
Even though our atmosphere comprises of 78% nitrogen in the form of gas, plants
don't have the enzymes to use it. That's why when N2 diffuses into the soil, different
bacterial species transform it into ammonium ions (NH4+) that plants may use.
The role of nitrogen is crucial because it is responsible for growth and

development of the vegetative component in which it gives leaves and stems a
dark-green color. It also promotes the growth of the roots, improves fruit quality,
promotes the growth of leafy vegetables, raises the protein content of fodder
crops, and facilitates the uptake and utilization of other nutrients, such as
potassium and phosphorus. Nitrogen deficiency results in stunted growth and
appearance of chlorosis in the leaves (the color of the leaves shifting from green
to yellow). Lacking nitrogen also limit the growth of lateral buds, which are the
precursors to leaves, stems, and branches.

Phosphorus plays a vital role in ATP production. ATP, or adenosine
triphosphate, that powers all of the cell's activities and metabolic processes in
plants. Phosphorus deficiency can have a significant impact on ATP production
in plants. When plants are deficient in phosphorus, they cannot produce as much
ATP, which can lead to a decrease in photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and
overall plant growth.
Potassium is the third most abundant mineral nutrient in plants, after

nitrogen and phosphorus. Potassium is a cation that maintains the electrical
balance in plant cells. It is required for the opening and closing of stomata, as a
cofactor for many enzymes involved in plant metabolism, activation of enzymes
involved in the Calvin cycle, cell division, and protein synthesis. Potassium-
deficient plants are often stunted with yellow or brown leaves and have weak
stems.
Lastly, magnesium plays a vital role in many physiological and biochemical

processes such as: chlorophyll synthesis and production, transportation and
utilization of photo assimilates, as a cofactor in enzyme activation, and protein
synthesis in plants.
Magnesium has a role in assimilation of CO2 during photosynthesis because

it is a key component of the chlorophyll pigments in the light-capturing complex
of chloroplasts. Mg also takes part in the transport of sucrose, the metabolism of
energy, the use of nitrogen, the development of pollen and male fertility, the
tolerance of stress, the interactions between plants and microbes, and many
other diverse biological activities.
3. Based on your observations, how did the presence or absence of these

nutrients affect plant growth and health?
From our observation, it is very important to manipulate the time of watering

and controlling the amount of fertilizer. Overwatering can lead to rotten roots.
Plants that are deficient in nitrogen will often have stunted growth and yellowing
leaves in adult crops. Plants that are deficient in potassium will often have weak
stems and wilted leaves. However, if you apply it too early in developing plants
with too much concentration of nitrogen or potassium, plants will eventually die
due to excessive nutrients. An excessive amount of nutrients affects the soil by
increasing the salt concentration, which can harm beneficial soil microbes. Our

control group maintained their health and exhibited better growth and
development due to the nutrients in the soil that had not been depleted. By
applying too much fertilizer in the soil, plants would burn due to shock. Because
plants rely on an osmotic pressure gradient to collect water, water flow reverses
when the pressure surrounding the roots becomes too high. The leaves burn
because there isn't any water to cool them since water is moving from the leaves
out the root. Remember that water moves from an area of low solute
concentration to high solute concentration. Due to excessive nitrogen and
potassium, some of the samples in the experimental group ended up burning their
leaves and died.
4. What conclusions can you draw from the data you collected? Do your
results support the hypothesis that different nutrients impact plant growth
differently?
In conclusion, this study reveals that nitrogen and potassium can stimulate
growth in mung bean plants, however it is still important to take note that proper
amount of nutrients should be applied, since it can inflict potential harm, including
plant mortality. It is essential to carefully consider nutrient application strategies to
achieve optimal growth without compromising plant health. These results only
showed that nutrients can positively or negatively impact the growth of mung
beans, depending on the amount of fertilizer applied into it.
5. How might the results of this experiment relate to real-world agriculture

and gardening practices?
Some of the farms do soil tests to ascertain the nutritional status of their
garden or farm before applying fertilizer in crops. It allows farmers to determine
the nutrient levels in their soil and identify areas that need nutrients. An approach
called "integrated nutrient management" maximizes the utilization of nutrients in
agriculture while minimizing their harmful effects on the environment. Crop
diversification and rotation, soil testing, nutrient recycling, precision application,
and farmer training are all part of it. In order to meet crop needs and reduce loss,
nutrients must be applied in the right amount and at the right time.
Dr. T. Scott Murrell of International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) stated that
when it comes to the 4Rs of crop nutrition (right source, right rate, right time, right
place), many farmers focus most of their attention on the right rate. The right rate

means the perfect amount of fertilizer type crop needs. The right source matches
the fertilizer type. The right place means the specific place to allocate the
nutrients. Source, timing, and location are all equally crucial. Moreover, providing
nutrients at the proper time allows for the optimal synchronization of nutrients at
the times when the crop really needs them.
6. What are some potential limitations of this experiment, and how could
you improve it in the future?
Choosing mongo plants as the subject of the experiment provided us with

disadvantages due to the off timing of the experiment. Mung bean plants grow
best during the summer and must be harvested before autumn (March–May). We
were only able to observe the plants for a very short period, which limits our
knowledge of how each nutrient (nitrogen, potassium) really impacts the adult
form of mung beans. Moreover, we were not able to replicate the experiment
and only had a small sample size during the study. External factors like
temperature, light, humidity, and soil pH were not properly monitored and
controlled. In addition, our plants were not able to receive enough sunlight since
rainy days often occurred.
We suggest that researchers should take precautionary measures, such as

choosing the right plants that can grow best in the season and doing soil testing
before starting planting. Furthermore, it is better to provide enough equipment
that can provide enough lights, a soil meter for measuring the moisture level and
pH of the soil, a proper location to grow the plants, and identify what nutrients the
soil is lacking. For example, we can monitor the nutrient levels in the soil by
installing soil sensors that collect data on nutrient levels and soil moisture.
Last, to gain a better understanding of the roles of nitrogen and potassium

in mung bean plant growth and development, we suggest considering an
experiment in which you can grow plants in hydroponic solutions with different
levels of nitrogen and potassium. For example, you could prepare hydroponic
solutions with different levels of nitrogen: 100 ppm, 200 ppm, and 300 ppm. Make
sure to include a control group, and you can also do the same in the potassium.
You could then compare the height, leaf numbers, leaf size, and overall growth
of the plants in the different treatments.

7. Discuss the importance of maintaining balanced nutrient levels in plant
nutrition for agricultural and horticultural purposes.
Plants have varying nutritional needs depending on their age, growth

stage, and environment since different conditions and stages require varying
amounts of macro- and micronutrients.
Changes in the concentrations of various nutrients can affect the general

health of plants, which can lead to illness, discoloration of the leaves, and even
the death of crops. Variations in the amounts of a variety of important elements,
including nitrogen, calcium, potassium, zinc, manganese, copper, selenium,
silicon, and nickel, can alter the nutrient status of plants and result in either
insufficiency or excess.
Carl Sprengel, a German chemist who made significant contributions to

agricultural and biological chemistry, created a principle in agricultural science
that was later popularized by Justus von Liebig in the 19th century. It states that if
one essential plant nutrient is deficient, plant growth will be poor even when all
other essential nutrients are present or abundant. Only by increasing the amount
of the most deficient nutrient can you improve the potential plant growth.
According to Liebig's barrel principle, each nutrient is essential for plant

growth, and each nutrient must be present in the correct proportion. If one
nutrient is in short supply, it will limit the plant's ability to use the other nutrients,
even if the other nutrients are present in adequate amounts.
For example, if a plant is deficient in nitrogen, it will not be able to use the
phosphorus and potassium in the soil even if those nutrients are present in
adequate amounts. This is because nitrogen is essential for the production of
chlorophyll, which is necessary for photosynthesis.
In agriculture and horticulture, Liebig's barrel principle is used to develop

fertilizer recommendations and to manage soil fertility. Farmers and horticulturists
use soil tests to determine the nutrient levels in the soil. They then use this
information to develop fertilizer applications that will provide the plants with the
nutrients they need in the correct proportions.
The significance of nutrient monitoring and management for improving

production efficiency is highlighted by the fact that nutrient excess or deficiency

can have a major impact on plant development and crop yield. Balanced
nutrition is important for plants because it ensures that all the nutrients needed are
present in the correct proportions. This allows the plants to grow and develop to
their full potential.
Inadequate provision of crucial nutrients can hinder the optimal growth

and development of plants, resulting in decreased crop yields and heightened
their susceptibility to abiotic stress such as drought, pests, and diseases as plant
health are impacted by inadequate availability of vital nutrients.
VI. COCLUSION
In conclusion, this study emphasizes the capacity of nitrogen and potassium

to stimulate growth in mung bean plants. However, it is important to take note
that the proper amount of nutrients shall be applied to the plants. Studies
revealed that nitrogen and potassium can positively impact growth, still with the
data collected, it clearly demonstrates that excessive nutrient application can
lead to detrimental effects, including plant mortality.
Therefore, it is of paramount importance to meticulously consider nutrient

application strategies to ensure that optimal growth is achieved without
compromising the overall health of the plants. The results clearly illustrate that
nutrients have the potential to influence mung bean growth, but the extent of
their impact is contingent upon the precise amount of fertilizer applied. In
essence, these findings emphasize the need for precise and judicious nutrient
management in mung bean cultivation to harness their growth-enhancing
benefits while preventing potential harm.

References &
Related Articles

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FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 1

Each nutrient plays a specific role in plant growth and development.

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 2

Phosphorus plays a vital role in ATP production. ATP, or adenosine

Meanwhile, potassium is the third most abundant mineral nutrient in plants,

Together with enzymes, both macronutrients and micronutrients are present

However, it is also important to note that excessive application of nutrients

Third-year biology students are tasked with investigating the effects of

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 3

The general objective of this research is to investigate the effects of nutrient

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 4

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 5

NUMBER OF DAY(S) OBSERVATIONS

The seedlings from each set-ups

The mung beans were repotted to

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 6

Rotting of roots were observed in every

The heavy rains within the past few

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 7

On the 22nd day, the growth of mung

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 8

PLANT HEIGHT (INCHES)

Control 1 0 1.5 3.2 4.2 6 6.1 6.1 6.1 6.2 6.5 7

Control 2 0 0.9 3.6 6 7.9 8 8 8.1 8.5 8.5 9

Control 3 0 1.2 3.9 4.3 6.5 7 7 7.2 7.8 8 9

N-2 0 1.6 3.5 4.2 5.3 5.8 5.8 5.9 6 6 6.3

N-3 0 1.2 3.2 4.5 5.6 5.6 5.9 6 6.3 0 0

K-1 0 1.6 2.9 3.6 4.6 4.7 4.7 4.7 5 0 0

K-2 0 1.8 4 4.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 6.2 6.4 6.7 7

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 9

control nitrogen pottasium

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 10

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 11

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 12

Control Nitrogen Potassium

The data provided represents the average number of leaves in different

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 13

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 14

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 15

In summary, this data reveals the transformation of mung bean leaves in

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 16

1. What is the purpose of having a control group in this experiment?

2. Describe the role of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium in

Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium are essential

The role of nitrogen is crucial because it is responsible for growth and

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 17

Potassium is the third most abundant mineral nutrient in plants, after

Lastly, magnesium plays a vital role in many physiological and biochemical

Magnesium has a role in assimilation of CO2 during photosynthesis because

3. Based on your observations, how did the presence or absence of these

From our observation, it is very important to manipulate the time of watering

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 18

5. How might the results of this experiment relate to real-world agriculture

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 19

Choosing mongo plants as the subject of the experiment provided us with

We suggest that researchers should take precautionary measures, such as

Last, to gain a better understanding of the roles of nitrogen and potassium

FC Bio 319: General Physiology| 20

Plants have varying nutritional needs depending on their age, growth

Changes in the concentrations of various nutrients can affect the general

Carl Sprengel, a German chemist who made significant contributions to

According to Liebig's barrel principle, each nutrient is essential for plant

In agriculture and horticulture, Liebig's barrel principle is used to develop