Chemistry – Chemistry of the environment - Fertilisers | e-Consult

Plants require essential nutrients for healthy growth, and ammonium salts (e.g., ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate) and nitrates (e.g., potassium nitrate) provide key elements for this. Plants absorb nitrogen in the form of ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and nitrate ions (NO₃^-) from the soil.

Nitrogen is a crucial component of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and chlorophyll. It's essential for building plant tissues and promoting vegetative growth (leaves and stems). A deficiency in nitrogen leads to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves (chlorosis).

Ammonium salts provide a readily available source of nitrogen. The ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) can be directly assimilated by plants. However, soil conditions (pH) can affect the availability of ammonium. In alkaline soils, ammonium can be lost as ammonia gas (NH₃), reducing its effectiveness. Nitrates are generally more stable in alkaline conditions.

Nitrates are also readily absorbed by plants and are converted to ammonium ions within the plant. They are particularly important for rapid growth and the development of green foliage.

Therefore, the use of ammonium salts and nitrates as fertilizers ensures plants have an adequate supply of nitrogen, promoting healthy growth and increased crop yields.