Why is purification of water and nutrient salts so important in studies involving mineral nutrition using hydroponics?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Hydroponics**: Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient solution instead. This allows for precise control over the nutrients that plants receive.

2. **Impurities in Water**: Impure water contains various impurities, including soluble minerals and salts. These impurities can affect the quality of the nutrient solution used in hydroponics.

3. **Impact of Impurities**: When impure water and mineral salts are used in hydroponics, the impurities can interfere with the growth of plants. They can alter the nutrient balance and affect the plants' ability to absorb essential nutrients.

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