Module 2 Discussion: Nitrogen and Nitrogen-Containing Fertilizers, a Source of Nutrient Pollution

Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas composed of N2 molecules. The Earth’s atmosphere is composed of 78% nitrogen (as N2 molecules) by volume. The N2 molecule is quite nonreactive due to the triple bond between the nitrogen atoms. Because of the low reactivity of the N2 molecules, nitrogen needs to be “fixed” or converted into nitrogen-containing compounds such as ammonia, NH3. Nitrogen is a critical nutrient for plant growth. Its largest commercial use is found in the manufacture of nitrogen-containing fertilizers. The industrial synthesis of ammonia, NH3, from nitrogen and hydrogen is the basis of the Haber process, which is critical in the production of fertilizers. For the Haber process:

N2(g) + 3 H2(g) « 2 NH3(g)

In this process, nitrogen and hydrogen react at high pressure and temperature in the presence of a catalyst to form ammonia. The ammonia produced can be applied directly to the soil, or it can be converted into ammonium salts that are also used as fertilizers.

Nutrient Pollution refers to the excess of nutrient elements like nitrogen and phosphorous, found in water producing a range of consequences that harm the environment. Nutrient pollution is a very challenging environmental problem nowadays. When too many nutrients enter the waterbodies, they cause excessive algae growth. Excess algae can reduce or deplete dissolved oxygen available to aquatic life producing harmful toxins.

Read the information provided in the following links which contain valuable information to understand the environmental challenge regarding nutrient pollution:

• Basic Information about Nutrient PollutionLinks to an external site.
• The ProblemLinks to an external site.
• Sources and SolutionsLinks to an external site.
• The EffectsLinks to an external site.
• Where This OccursLinks to an external site.
• What You Can DoLinks to an external site.

Discussion:

1. Describe sources of excess nitrogen and phosphorus which affect human health and the environment.
2. Describe environmental conditions where nutrient pollution occurs.
3. Describe in which ways we can prevent nutrient pollution.

Make sure to:

• Write a short essay or paragraph of at least 300 words. 
• Use concrete examples/details and avoid generalities.
• Address all questions.
• Use proper grammar and punctuation.
• If you do your own research, include at least 2 references in your discussion and cite your sources.