Powdery mildew weakens plants by doing what to the leaf?

Powdery mildew weakens plants by doing what to the leaf?

• A. Absorbing Nutrients From The Leaf
• B. Increasing Photosynthesis
• C. Storing Carbohydrates
• D. Growing Roots

Answer: (A)

Powdery mildew weakens leaves by absorbing nutrients from the leaf. The fungus grows on the leaf surface and sends structures into the leaf tissues to tap into sugars and minerals, effectively siphoning away resources the plant needs for growth and repair. This nutrient drain reduces the leaf’s energy available for photosynthesis and repair, leading to weaker, less vigorous plants. The other ideas don’t fit because the disease doesn’t boost photosynthesis, store carbohydrates, or promote root growth; its impact on the leaf comes from taking nutrients rather than supplying or transporting them.

Powdery mildew weakens leaves by absorbing nutrients from the leaf. The fungus grows on the leaf surface and sends structures into the leaf tissues to tap into sugars and minerals, effectively siphoning away resources the plant needs for growth and repair. This nutrient drain reduces the leaf’s energy available for photosynthesis and repair, leading to weaker, less vigorous plants. The other ideas don’t fit because the disease doesn’t boost photosynthesis, store carbohydrates, or promote root growth; its impact on the leaf comes from taking nutrients rather than supplying or transporting them.