Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): Application of nitrogenous fertilizer leads to $\text{N}_2\text{O}$ emission from the soil.
Statement (II): Nitrous oxide is present in large quantities compared to methane in the atmosphere and therefore processes higher potent danger.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are false.
• C. Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false.
• D. Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true.

Hint:

To minimize agricultural $\text{N}_2\text{O}$ emissions, use nitrification inhibitors (like neem-coated urea) to regulate nitrogen release and matching crop demand.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nitrous oxide ($\text{N}_2\text{O}$) and methane ($\text{CH}_4$) are greenhouse gases.
Their atmospheric impact depends on both their concentration and global warming potential (GWP).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement (I) is true: Applying nitrogenous fertilizers increases the inorganic $\text{NH}_4^+$ and $\text{NO}_3^-$ pools in soil.
This fuels microbial nitrification and denitrification processes, which release nitrous oxide ($\text{N}_2\text{O}$) gas.
- Statement (II) is false: In the atmosphere, methane ($\text{CH}_4$) is present in larger concentrations (~9 ppm) than nitrous oxide ($\text{N}_2\text{O}$) (~0.33 ppm).
Although $\text{N}_2\text{O}$ has a higher global warming potential (~273 times that of $\text{CO}_2$) compared to methane (~28 times), its total atmospheric concentration is much lower.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Statement I is true, and Statement II is false.