Question

The possible resource of phosphorus ions and nitrogen ions in soil generally get depleted, because they are usually found as

• A. Positively charged ions
• B. Negatively charged ions
• C. A disproportionate mixture of negatively charged ions
• D. Particle carrying no charge

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Negatively charged ions

Clay particles have a negative charge, so the positively charged mineral ions are adsorbed on clay particles and not easily lost but negatively charged mineral ions can be easily lost as they are not adsorbed on soil particles.

Both nitrogen and phosphorous are absorbed in negatively charged ionic form i.e., hydrogen phosphate and dihydrogen phosphate and nitrate ion form. Hence, the source of nitrogen and phosphorous can be easily depleted in soil.

So, the correct answer is 'Negatively charged ions'