What is the difference between an essential element and a beneficial element?

Answer 1

essential elements(EE) are those that are required for the completion of the plant life cycle..whereas beneficial elements (BE) are those which promote plant growth but are not necessary for the plant life cycle. EE - there are 3 criteria for the elements to be essential BE - there are no such criteria formulated. EE - eg. Mangenese magnesium calcium boron potassium iron zinc etc. There are 17 EE have been found. BE - eg. Silicon sodium cobalt aluminum and selenium. EE - they are involved in metabolic activities of plant. Production of chlorophyll reproductive and vegetative growth etc. BE - they enhance the resistnce to pathogens drought salinity and nutrient toxicity or deficiency. Enhance plant nutritional value. {ANSWERED BY SHAHEDA }