Which statement accurately describes the mobility of phosphorus in soil and plants?

The statement that phosphorus is immobile in soil and moderately mobile in plants accurately reflects the behavior of phosphorus in the environment. In soil, phosphorus tends to bind strongly to soil particles, particularly with iron, aluminum, and calcium, making it relatively immobile. This means that once phosphorus is added to the soil, it does not easily move away from the site of application and tends to remain within a localized area.

In plants, phosphorus is considered to have moderate mobility. This means that while it can be transported within the plant to some extent, it is not as readily translocated as some other nutrients, such as nitrogen or potassium. Phosphorus is crucial for plant development, especially for root growth and the development of flowers and seeds, and its availability within the plant can influence these processes.

Overall, this understanding of phosphorus behavior helps in managing soil fertility and optimizing crop production, as it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that phosphorus is accessible to plants while recognizing its limited movement in the soil.