Which of the following deficiencies is associated with stunted growth and yellowing leaves in plants?

The association of stunted growth and yellowing leaves in plants is closely linked to nitrogen deficiency. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient that plays a critical role in the growth and development of plants. It is a key component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, and it's also essential for the formation of chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis.

When a plant experiences nitrogen deficiency, it often exhibits signs such as stunted growth, as it lacks the necessary resources to develop properly. Additionally, the yellowing of leaves, particularly starting with the older leaves at the base of the plant and spreading upwards, is a hallmark symptom of nitrogen deficiency. This yellowing, known as chlorosis, occurs because the plant is unable to produce enough chlorophyll without sufficient nitrogen, impacting its ability to photosynthesize effectively.

Other nutrient deficiencies can cause similar symptoms but in different contexts or with additional signs. For instance, potassium deficiency may lead to leaf tip burn and poor root development, while iron deficiency typically presents as yellowing of younger leaves between the veins. Magnesium deficiency can also cause yellowing but often results in a more specific pattern of interveinal chlorosis, not uniform yellowing like that seen in nitrogen deficiency. Thus, nitrogen deficiency is