Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

Which of the following is classified as a macronutrient?

1. Copper

2. Magnesium

3. Sulfur

4. Boron

The correct answer is: Sulfur

The classification of nutrients into macronutrients and micronutrients is based on the quantity required by plants for optimal growth. Macronutrients are essential elements that plants require in larger amounts, typically measured in percentages. Sulfur falls into this category because it is vital for the formation of proteins and enzymes, synthesis of amino acids, and contributes to the structural integrity of proteins in plants. It is also a critical component of coenzymes and certain vitamins. In contrast, the other options listed—copper, magnesium, and boron—are classified as micronutrients or secondary macronutrients. Copper and boron are needed in much smaller quantities, and while magnesium is considered a macronutrient, it is more specifically categorized as a secondary macronutrient, providing a slightly different context than sulfur’s primary macronutrient status. Understanding the role of sulfur as a macronutrient highlights its importance in plant nutrition and emphasizes the need for adequate sulfur levels in soil to support healthy plant growth and crop yields.