Potassium Loss and Changes in the Fine Structure of Corn Root Tips Induced by H-ion

Abstract

Su,nntarv. The effects of H, Ca, and anaerobiosis upon loss of K to ambient solutions, upon changes in the fine structure, and upon the respiration of corn root tissue were studied. In the pH range 5.5 to 8.0 losses of K decreased with decreasing H concentration. Ca reduced K loss greatly in the lower part of the pH range but with increasing pH the effect of Ca declined. Losses of K tinder No were much greater than those measured tinder air but the same effects of H and Ca were found. The effect of phosphate upon K loss was found to depend upon pH, temperature and the state of development of the tissue.