2. Why is purification of water and nutrient salts so important in studies involving mineral nutrition using hydroponics?
The technique of growing plants in soil-less conditions in solution cultures is called hydroponics. Hydroponic studies are used to identify the functions and roles of different mineral elements in the physiology of plants. In such studies, it is important to purify water and nutrient salts because if there are impurities in water and nutrient salts the exact physiological role and deficiency symptoms of elements cannot be identified. Therefore, in studies involving mineral nutrition using hydroponics, purification of water and nutrient salts is essential to maintain the optimum growth of the plants.