Which of the following is a characteristic of essential nutrients?

Essential nutrients are substances that plants require for their growth and development, which makes the choice of stating that they are necessary for growth and development correct. These nutrients play critical roles in various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and structural formation. Without an adequate supply of essential nutrients, plants may exhibit stunted growth, poor development, and increased susceptibility to diseases.

The other options fail to accurately describe essential nutrients. For instance, while some nutrients can be synthesized through certain biological processes, essential nutrients cannot be synthesized by the plant itself and must be acquired from the soil or other sources. Additionally, essential nutrients have a significant impact on plant health; a deficiency in any of these nutrients can lead to various health issues in the plant. Lastly, while soil is a primary source of essential nutrients, some can also be derived from organic matter and fertilizers, making the notion that they are produced only in the soil incomplete and misleading.