Is Nitrogen (N) mobile in the plant?

Nitrogen is considered mobile within plants. This mobility is primarily due to its role as a key nutrient that is involved in various physiological processes, including protein synthesis and photosynthesis. When plants require nitrogen, they mobilize it from older leaves to younger tissues, ensuring that new growth receives the necessary nutrients for development.

This characteristic of nitrogen is particularly important because it allows plants to adapt to nutrient deficiencies; if the root uptake of nitrogen is inadequate, they can still access stored nitrogen from older leaves, helping to maintain overall growth and efficiency.

Understanding this aspect of nitrogen mobility sheds light on effective nutrient management in agriculture, as it can influence decisions on fertilization timing and methods. For example, optimizing nitrogen application can significantly enhance crop yields and reduce environmental impacts by minimizing excess nitrogen runoff.

Other options suggesting that nitrogen's mobility is contingent on species, conditions, or that it is immobile do not account for the widespread generalization applicable to most higher plants. In contrast, the mobility of nitrogen is a well-established fact relevant across a broad range of plant types.