What can be the impact of excessive/inappropriate use of nitrogenous fertilizers in agriculture?
- 1. Proliferation of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in soil can occur.
- 2. Increase in the acidity of soil can take place.
- 3. Leaching of nitrate to the ground-water can occur.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1 and 3 only
2 only
2 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2015
Excessive use of nitrogenous fertilizers can lead to soil degradation and environmental pollution. The process of nitrification, where ammonium from fertilizers is converted to nitrate, releases hydrogen ions, increasing soil acidity over time (Statement 2 is correct). Nitrate is highly soluble and mobile in soil, making it susceptible to leaching into groundwater, causing contamination and potential health risks (Statement 3 is correct).