Answer to Question 1The three important plant minerals are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Most Nitrogen is produced synthetically
from air. Phosphorous is found in the earth's crust in the form of phosphate rock. Potassium is often called
potash due to the early incidental use of potassium. It was discovered that when boiled wood ashes from pots
were applied to crops, they grew better. It was later discovered the substance was potassium. In nature, potassium
occurs in the form of salts in beds similar to coal. Along with the production of potash from mines, potassium can
be obtained from desalination processing of seawater.
Answer to Question 2Lead is used in batteries, gasoline, paint, and metal building products. Zinc is used in kitchen utensils, vacuum
cleaners, and washing machines. Tin is used in the production of bronze. Mercury is used in electrical equipment,
special paints, and industrial chemicals