Question

Describe two reasons why the use of synthetic fertilizers is not the answer to decreasing soil quality

Answer 1

Answer:

Two reasons why the use of synthetic fertilizers is not the answer to decreasing soil quality are:

• They increase the nitrate levels in the soil which is a rich supplement for nitrogen needed by plants for their growth.
• They are easily available and user-friendly but should be used in regulated amounts as an excess of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus present in synthetic fertilizers enter the aquatic ecosystem.

Explanation:

Synthetic fertilizers are made up of three main nutrients, viz, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. All of these are required for the proper growth of plants.  Though, these fertilizers give higher yields, yet their excessive use is bad for aquatic ecosystems.

When these fertilizers are used in excessive amounts, they reduce the dissolved oxygen in the water as there’s an increase of bacteria and algae in the water.  That is why such fertilizers should be used in regulated amounts.