From where do plants primarily obtain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen?

Study for the Maryland Fertilizer Exam. Prepare through flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Ensure your success on the test!

Plants primarily obtain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from soil water and atmospheric carbon dioxide, making this choice the most accurate. Carbon is acquired from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere during the process of photosynthesis; this gas is absorbed through the leaves. Hydrogen and oxygen are sourced from water taken up by the roots from the soil.

Both elements are vital for the formation of organic molecules and contribute significantly to plant growth and metabolism. The absorbed water provides hydrogen and oxygen, while carbon dioxide provides the carbon needed to produce sugars and other compounds necessary for the plant's development. Thus, the combination of atmospheric CO2 and soil water provides the essential building blocks for plants.

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