Which is essential for the growth of the root tip?

Source: It is absorbed by the plants in the form of Ca²⁺ from calcium carbonate etc.

Functions:

(i) It is necessary for the formation of the middle lamella of plants where it occurs as calcium pectate.

(ii) It is necessary for the growth of apical meristem and root hair and tip formation.

(iii) It acts as an activator of several enzymes, e.g., ATPase, succinic dehydrogenase, adenylate kinase, etc.

(iv) Along with Na⁺ and K⁺, it maintains the permeability of the plasma membrane.

(v) It is involved in the organization of spindle fibers during mitosis.

(vi) It antagonizes the toxic effects of Na⁺ and Mg++. It is essential for fat metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, nitrate assimilation, and binding of nucleic acids with proteins. Calcium is required by dividing and differentiating cells.