Question

Give the chemical formula for Urea and explain its role as a nitrogenous fertilizer.

Hint:

Urea should be mixed well with soil after application to prevent nitrogen loss due to ammonia volatilization.

Answer 1

Concept: Nitrogenous fertilizers are compounds that supply nitrogen to plants, an essential nutrient for growth and development. Urea is one of the most widely used nitrogen fertilizers due to its high nitrogen content and easy availability. 
Chemical Formula of Urea: \[ \mathrm{CO(NH_2)_2} \] It is an organic compound containing: 
One carbonyl group (\(C=O\)) 
Two amine groups (\(NH_2\)) 
Urea contains about \(46%\) nitrogen by weight, making it a highly concentrated nitrogen fertilizer. 
Role as a Nitrogenous Fertilizer: 
Source of Nitrogen: Urea decomposes in soil to form ammonia and nitrates, which plants absorb easily. 
Promotes Vegetative Growth: Nitrogen helps in formation of proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids, leading to rapid plant growth and green foliage. 
Chlorophyll Formation: Nitrogen is essential for chlorophyll synthesis, improving photosynthesis and crop productivity. 
High Efficiency and Solubility: Urea dissolves easily in water and can be applied directly to soil or through irrigation systems.