What are the 3 primary nutrients found in fertilizers?

The selection of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium as the three primary nutrients in fertilizers is grounded in their essential roles in plant growth and development. These nutrients, often referred to as N-P-K, are crucial for various physiological processes within plants.

Nitrogen is vital for leaf and stem growth as it is a key component of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, and is also integral to chlorophyll production, impacting photosynthesis significantly. Phosphorus is important for energy transfer within the plant, as it is a part of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), fostering root development and flowering. Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating plant water usage and enzyme activation, aiding in overall plant resilience.

Although options that include calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, or micronutrients like iron, manganese, and zinc are important for plant health, they are classified as secondary nutrients or micronutrients rather than primary nutrients. The distinction here is significant, as primary nutrients are required in larger amounts and are fundamental to the basic physiological functions of all plants.

The inclusion of potash in option D likely refers to potassium, which is essential for plant health, emphasizing its importance alongside nitrogen and phosphorus in fertilizers. Thus, recognizing the role of nitrogen, phosphorus,