zinc

Symbol: Zn. A metal element, atomic number 30, atomic weight 65.38, needed in trace amounts for successful plant growth. Zinc ions are required as cofactors by certain enzymes, e.g. carboxypeptidase, carbonic anhydrase, and alcohol dehydrogenase. It has been suggested that zinc may play a role in the mechanism of action of the growth substance ethylene. A common symptom of deficiency is leaf mottling.