Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN), commercially referred to as Kisan Khad, is a neutral fertilizer containing both ammonium and nitrate forms of nitrogen. It typically provides 25% to 28% nitrogen and includes calcium, which helps in maintaining soil pH balance, making it particularly suitable for application in acidic soils where other nitrogen sources might exacerbate acidity.
1442
What is the maximum permissible limit for biuret content in urea as per the Fertilizer Control Order of 1957?
Urea is a widely used nitrogenous fertilizer, but it contains biuret as a byproduct of the manufacturing process. Biuret is toxic to many crops, especially when applied as a foliar spray. To ensure agricultural safety and prevent crop damage, the Fertilizer Control Order mandates that the biuret content in urea should not exceed 1.5% for general agricultural use.
1443
Which analytical instrument is commonly employed to determine the concentration of sodium (Na) and potassium (K) in soil or plant samples?
A flame photometer is the standard instrument used for the quantitative analysis of alkali metals like sodium and potassium. It works by atomizing the sample in a flame and measuring the intensity of the light emitted at specific wavelengths. This method is highly sensitive and widely used in agricultural laboratories for soil fertility testing and plant tissue analysis to ensure proper nutrient management.
1444
Which fertilizer provides three essential plant nutrients?
Single Superphosphate (SSP) is a foundational mineral fertilizer. It is unique because it supplies three essential plant nutrients: Phosphorus (14.5%), Sulphur (11%), and Calcium (21%). These nutrients are critical for promoting robust root development and improving the overall physical texture of the soil, making it a highly versatile choice for various agricultural applications.
1445
In the context of soil taxonomy, which feature is primarily used to define the 'Great Group' level?
Soil taxonomy is a hierarchical classification system. The 'Great Group' category is defined primarily based on the presence or absence of specific diagnostic horizons, including surface and subsurface features, as well as soil moisture and temperature regimes. While the provided answer highlights the diagnostic surface horizon, it is important to note that subsurface horizons are also critical in defining many Great Groups within the system.
1446
Which buffalo breed is recognized for having the highest milk yield?
The Murrah buffalo is widely considered the highest milk-yielding breed of water buffalo. Originating from the Haryana and Punjab regions of India, it is highly sought after by dairy farmers for its superior lactation performance. Individual high-performing animals have set records for daily milk production in national competitions. Its genetic potential for milk production makes it a cornerstone of the dairy industry in South Asia and beyond.
1447
What term describes plants that naturally grow along the banks of streams or rivers?
Pheritophytes (often referred to as riparian plants) are specifically adapted to grow in the moist, nutrient-rich environments found along stream banks and water bodies. These plants play a crucial role in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and providing habitat for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. They are distinct from xerophytes, which are adapted to arid conditions, and bryophytes, which are non-vascular land plants.
1448
Which buffalo breed is recognized for having the highest milk fat percentage?
The Bhadawari buffalo, native to the Agra and Etawah districts of Uttar Pradesh, India, is renowned for its exceptional milk quality. It is specifically prized for its high milk fat content, which can reach up to 13%. This makes it one of the most valuable genetic resources for dairy farmers focusing on fat-rich milk production. Buffalo milk generally contains higher levels of protein, lactose, and minerals compared to cow milk, with Bhadawari leading in fat concentration.
1449
How does the application of P2O5 fertilizer to a leguminous green manure crop influence phosphorus availability for the subsequent crop?
While green manure improves soil structure and nitrogen content, the direct application of P2O5 to the green manure crop is primarily intended to boost the biomass production of the legume itself. The phosphorus is incorporated into the plant tissue and released upon decomposition, but the direct availability to the following crop is often considered negligible or not the primary goal of the fertilization strategy.
1450
What is the standard grain size range for particles classified as silt?
In soil science and geology, silt is defined by a specific particle size range. According to the Wentworth scale and other standard classifications, silt particles typically range from 0.004 mm to 0.0625 mm in diameter. Particles smaller than this are classified as clay, while those larger are classified as sand.