key term - (NH₄)₂SO₄

Definition

(NH₄)₂SO₄, known as ammonium sulfate, is an inorganic salt that consists of two ammonium ions (NH₄⁺) and one sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻). This compound is commonly used as an inorganic fertilizer, providing a readily available source of nitrogen and sulfur essential for plant growth. Ammonium sulfate is highly soluble in water, making it effective in agricultural applications where quick nutrient uptake is necessary.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ammonium sulfate contains about 21% nitrogen, making it a valuable source for promoting vegetative growth in crops.
2. The sulfate ion in ammonium sulfate helps to improve soil structure and enhances the availability of other nutrients.
3. This compound is especially effective in alkaline soils where it can help lower the pH, making nutrients more accessible to plants.
4. Ammonium sulfate can be used as a fertilizer for a wide variety of crops, including corn, wheat, and various vegetables.
5. In addition to its use as a fertilizer, ammonium sulfate is also employed in various industrial processes and as a food additive.

Review Questions

• How does ammonium sulfate contribute to soil health and plant growth?
  • Ammonium sulfate contributes to soil health by providing essential nutrients like nitrogen and sulfur. The nitrogen enhances protein synthesis in plants, leading to improved vegetative growth, while sulfur is critical for synthesizing amino acids and proteins. Moreover, the application of ammonium sulfate can help lower soil pH in alkaline conditions, which increases the availability of other nutrients, further supporting plant health.
• Discuss the impact of ammonium sulfate on soil pH and nutrient availability. Why is this important for agricultural practices?
  • Ammonium sulfate can lower soil pH when applied to alkaline soils, creating an environment that enhances nutrient solubility and availability. This is crucial for agricultural practices because many essential nutrients become more accessible to plants when the soil is at an optimal pH. Improved nutrient uptake promotes better crop yields and overall plant health, making ammonium sulfate a popular choice among farmers.
• Evaluate the broader implications of using ammonium sulfate as a fertilizer on sustainable agriculture practices and environmental health.
  • Using ammonium sulfate as a fertilizer has implications for sustainable agriculture practices as it provides essential nutrients while potentially improving soil conditions. However, its application must be managed carefully to avoid issues such as nutrient runoff, which can lead to water pollution and eutrophication. Evaluating the balance between nutrient supply and environmental impact is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems while maximizing agricultural productivity.

Related terms

Nitrogen Fertilizers: Fertilizers that primarily supply nitrogen to plants, essential for the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids.

Sulfur Fertilizers: Fertilizers that provide sulfur, a crucial element for plant metabolism, particularly for the formation of amino acids and proteins.

Soil pH: A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil, which can be influenced by fertilizer application and affects nutrient availability to plants.