An Investigation of the Mineral Content of Barley Grains and Seedlings

Abstract

The Ca, Mg, K, and P content of dry barley (Hordeum vulgare) grains and seedlings was investigated using energy dispersive x-ray analysis and neutron activation analysis. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis of protein bodies in aleurone cells showed that these bodies contained very little Ca in relation to P, Mg, and K. Neutron activation analysis also showed that the endosperm contained very little Ca in relation to the other three elements. Surface sterilization and soaking treatments brought about slight loss of Ca but substantial loss of K from embryos. Over 6 days of growth the seedling plant gained minerals from the endosperm.