Nutrition is the process by which living organisms obtain the necessary nutrients from food to support their life functions. It involves the intake, digestion, absorption, and utilization of nutrients by the body.

Nutrition in Plants

Plants are autotrophs, which means they produce their own food through the process of photosynthesis. The nutrients required by plants are obtained from the soil and the atmosphere.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants produce their own food. It involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy, which is stored in the form of glucose.

Parts of a Plant

Different parts of a plant are responsible for different functions related to nutrition. These include:

- Roots: Roots absorb water and minerals from the soil.
- Stem: The stem transports water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves.
- Leaves: Leaves are the primary site for photosynthesis, where carbon dioxide is converted into glucose.

Nutrients Required by Plants

Plants require three main nutrients for their growth and development:

- Macronutrients: These are the nutrients required in large quantities, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Micronutrients: These are the nutrients required in small quantities, including iron, copper, and zinc.
- Water: Water is essential for the absorption and transport of nutrients in plants.

Conclusion

Nutrition is an essential process for the survival and growth of living organisms. In the case of plants, photosynthesis is the primary process by which they produce their own food, and different parts of the plant are responsible for different functions related to nutrition. By understanding the nutrients required by plants, we can take steps to ensure their optimal growth and development.

Nutrients are the components found in our food such as carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, proteins, dietary fibre etc. These components are necessary for living organisms to survive. Plants produce their own food while animals and human beings do not produce the their own food.