13. Differentiate between Manures and Fertilizers with suitable examples and briefly describe the classification of nitrogenous fertilizers based on the form of nitrogen present in N-fertilizers. (Not more than 250 words)

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Points to Remember:

  • Manures are organic, while fertilizers are inorganic.
  • Manures improve soil structure, while fertilizers primarily provide nutrients.
  • Nitrogenous fertilizers are classified based on the form of nitrogen they contain.

Introduction:

Manures and fertilizers are both soil amendments used to enhance crop productivity. Manures are organic substances derived from decomposed plant or animal matter, while fertilizers are inorganic chemical compounds manufactured industrially. Both play crucial roles in agriculture, but their composition, effects, and environmental impacts differ significantly.

Body:

Manures vs. Fertilizers:

| Feature | Manure

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| Fertilizer |
|—————-|—————————————|—————————————–|
| Source | Organic (plant/animal waste) | Inorganic (chemical synthesis) |
| Composition | Complex mixture of nutrients & OM | Specific nutrient concentration |
| Soil Impact | Improves soil structure, water retention | Primarily nutrient supply; may harm soil structure if overused |
| Nutrient Release| Slow and gradual | Rapid and potentially leachable |
| Examples | Compost, Farm Yard Manure (FYM), Vermicompost | Urea, Ammonium Nitrate, Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) |

Classification of Nitrogenous Fertilizers:

Nitrogenous fertilizers are broadly classified based on the form of nitrogen present:

  • Ammoniacal: Nitrogen is present as ammonium (NH₄⁺) ions. Examples include Ammonium Sulphate and Ammonium Chloride.
  • Nitrate: Nitrogen is present as nitrate (NO₃⁻) ions. Examples include Sodium Nitrate and Potassium Nitrate.
  • Amide: Nitrogen is present as amide (-CONH₂) groups. Urea is a primary example.
  • Urea-formaldehyde: A slow-release nitrogen fertilizer.

Conclusion:

Manures and fertilizers offer distinct advantages in agriculture. Manures improve soil health holistically, while fertilizers provide targeted nutrient supplementation. However, overuse of fertilizers can lead to environmental problems like water pollution and soil degradation. A balanced approach, integrating both manures and fertilizers judiciously, is crucial for sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Promoting organic farming techniques and responsible fertilizer use are vital for ensuring food security while protecting our ecosystems.

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