Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry
Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry
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Topic 10: Chemistry of the environment
Topic 10: Chemistry of the environment
Fertilisers
Fertilisers
Introduction
Introduction
Fertilisers play a vital role in modern agriculture by replenishing essential nutrients in the soil to promote healthy plant growth. This section focuses on ammonium salts, nitrates, and NPK fertilisers, which provide critical elements for plants.
Nitrogen-containing fertilisers
Nitrogen-containing fertilisers
Ammonium Salts:
Contain nitrogen, a key element for plant growth.
Example: Ammonium sulfate (NH₄)₂SO₄, used to provide nitrogen in a form easily absorbed by plants.
Nitrates:
Supply plants with nitrogen for protein synthesis, crucial for growth and repair.
Example: Sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) or potassium nitrate (KNO₃), used as water-soluble fertilisers.
NPK fertilisers
NPK fertilisers
Purpose:
NPK fertilisers are specially formulated to provide Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).
These three elements are vital for improved plant growth and increased crop yields.
Role of Each Element:
Nitrogen (N): Promotes healthy leaf and stem growth by aiding in the production of proteins.
Phosphorus (P): Necessary to make DNA, and flower/fruit production.
Potassium (K): Needed for the movement of water and opening and closing of stomata, so enhances drought resistance.
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