Nutrition in plants refers to the process by which plants obtain and utilize nutrients for growth and survival. • Autotrophs: Plants are primarily autotrophs, meaning they produce their own food through photosynthesis. This process uses sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose (sugar) for energy. • Macronutrients: Plants require large amounts of certain nutrients, known as macronutrients. These include carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). These are essential for building plant tissues and carrying out metabolic processes. • Micronutrients: Plants also need smaller quantities of micronutrients, also called trace elements. These include iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), and chlorine (Cl). They act as cofactors for enzymes and play vital roles in various physiological functions. • Nutrient Uptake: Plants absorb water and dissolved mineral nutrients from the soil through their roots. These nutrients are then transported throughout the plant via the xylem. • Factors Affecting Nutrition: Soil quality, pH, water availability, and light intensity all influence a plant's ability to obtain and use nutrients effectively.