Since each elements has one or more specific structural or functional role in plants, in the absence of any particular element, plants show certain morphological changes. These morphological changes are indicative of certain element deficiencies and are called deficiency symptoms. The deficiency symptoms vary from element to element and they disappear when the deficient mineral nutrient is provided to the plant. However, if deprivation continues, it may subsequently lead to the death of the plant. This way by administering different nutrients and observing the symptoms disappear we can find out experimentally the real deficient mineral element.
