350 years of phosphorus

Below is a quiz from Episode 22 of our podcast, Field, Lab, Earth (350 Years of Phosphorus with Dr. Andrew Sharpley and Dr. Don Flaten). Listen to the podcast by visiting https://bit.ly/3kEzR7V. You can also listen on your Apple (https://apple.co/2SpCoGs) or Android (https://bit.ly/2Sqf7nM) devices.

1. Which of the following functions of phosphorus within living organisms was not mentioned on the show?

   1. Holding DNA components together.
   2. Forming phospholipids in cell membranes.
   3. Forming enzyme used to get carbon from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.
   4. Creation of enzyme for drought resistance in crops.
   5. Bone and teeth formation.

    

2. Which of the following products contain phosphorus?

   1. Toothpaste.
   2. Soft drinks.
   3. Baking soda.
   4. Cooked meats.
   5. Pharmaceuticals.
   6. All of the above.
   7. a, b, and d.
   8. a, b, c, and e.

    

3. Which of the following was not mentioned on the show as a historical source of phosphorus?

   1. Boiled down or recycled urine.
   2. Crushed shells recovered directly from the ocean.
   3. Bone ash from battlefields and ossuaries.
   4. Rock phosphate treated with acid.
   5. Guano islands off South America.

    

4. Some challenges facing phosphorus use and research today include sustainable sourcing, efficient application, balancing global surpluses and deficiencies, and mitigating P loss through runoff.

   1. True.
   2. False.

    

5. Which of the following strategies can help with phosphorus use and management problems?
   1. Recycling phosphorus.
   2. Sustainable usage practices.
   3. Precision application.
   4. Soil testing for more accurate application recommendations.
   5. All of the above.
   6. b and c