In which of the following forms is iron absorbed by plants?

Options

A. Both ferric and ferrous
B. Free element
C. Ferrous
D. Ferric

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Iron Absorption in Plants:**
- Plants require various minerals for their growth and development, one of which is iron.

2. **Forms of Iron:**
- Iron exists in different oxidation states, primarily as ferrous (Fe²⁺) and ferric (Fe³⁺) ions.

3. **Iron Availability in Soil:**
- Although iron is abundant in the Earth's crust, its availability to plants is limited. This is influenced by factors such as soil redox potential and pH.

4. **Impact of Soil pH:**
- In soils with a higher pH (alkaline conditions), iron tends to oxidize and form insoluble ferric oxides (Fe₂O₃).

5. **Iron Absorption by Plants:**
- Plants primarily absorb iron in the ferric form (Fe³⁺). This is the form that is available in the rhizosphere, especially in alkaline soils.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that plants absorb iron in the form of ferric ions (Fe³⁺).

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