Which fertilizer is highly hygroscopic?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer: (D) Urea
Explanation:
→ Urea is a highly hygroscopic fertilizer, meaning it has a strong tendency to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. This property is due to the presence of the compound urea (CO(NH₂)₂), which readily absorbs water vapor from the air, especially in humid conditions.
→ Due to its hygroscopic nature, urea must be stored properly in a dry place to prevent it from caking and becoming ineffective. If it absorbs moisture, it may lose its potency and be difficult to handle.
→ Sodium nitrate, ammonium sulphate, and calcium ammonium nitrate are also fertilizers, but they are not as highly hygroscopic as urea. While they may absorb some moisture, their hygroscopic properties are not as pronounced.
Information Booster:
→ Urea contains a high nitrogen content, making it one of the most commonly used nitrogen fertilizers in agriculture.
→ The hygroscopic nature of urea can lead to its degradation if exposed to excessive moisture, which is why it is often coated to reduce its moisture absorption.
→ Hygroscopicity in fertilizers like urea can make storage conditions critical to maintain its efficiency and ease of use.
→ Sodium nitrate and ammonium sulphate are used as nitrogen fertilizers, but they do not exhibit the same moisture-absorbing characteristics as urea.
→ Fertilizer hygroscopicity can impact their application, particularly in large-scale farming operations, as it affects handling and effectiveness.
Additional Information (Other Options):
Option (A) – Sodium nitrate: This fertilizer is not as hygroscopic as urea and is used primarily in nitrate form to supply nitrogen to plants.
Option (B) – Ammonium sulphate: This fertilizer has moderate hygroscopic properties but is not as highly hygroscopic as urea.
Option (C) – Calcium ammonium nitrate: This fertilizer is a mixed form of ammonium nitrate and calcium carbonate and has lower hygroscopicity than urea.