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Air containing nitrogen-15 ammonia: foliar absorption by corn seedlings
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|February 18, 1972
Summary
Corn plants absorb atmospheric ammonia, acting as a natural sink. Absorption rates varied with ammonia concentration, with lower levels showing higher uptake efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Plant Physiology
Background:
- Atmospheric ammonia is a key component of air quality and nitrogen cycling.
- Understanding plant-atmosphere interactions is crucial for agricultural and environmental management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the capacity of corn seedlings to absorb atmospheric ammonia.
- To quantify ammonia uptake by corn plants at different atmospheric concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Corn seedlings were exposed to controlled concentrations of nitrogen-15 labeled ammonia in a sealed chamber.
- Nitrogen-15 content in plant tissues (tops and roots) was measured to determine ammonia absorption.
Main Results:
- Corn seedlings absorbed atmospheric ammonia, confirming plants as a potential natural sink.
- Ammonia absorption efficiency decreased as concentration increased: 43% at 1 ppm vs. 30% at 10 and 20 ppm.
Conclusions:
- Growing corn plants can effectively remove atmospheric ammonia.
- Plant-based ammonia uptake is concentration-dependent and significant for atmospheric nitrogen dynamics.
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