Q1: Ammonium nitrate (a fertiliser) is coated with limestone powder to

ANS:C - avoid the risk of explosion.

Ammonium nitrate (a fertilizer) is coated with limestone powder to avoid the risk of explosion. Ammonium nitrate itself is a highly effective nitrogen-based fertilizer. However, it is also highly sensitive to detonation under certain conditions, such as when exposed to heat or shock. This sensitivity has led to safety concerns, particularly in storage and transportation. Coating ammonium nitrate pellets with limestone powder serves as a safety measure to reduce the risk of explosion. Limestone acts as a diluent and absorbs moisture, which helps to stabilize the ammonium nitrate and make it less prone to detonation. Additionally, the limestone coating provides physical protection to the ammonium nitrate pellets, reducing the likelihood of accidental ignition. While coating ammonium nitrate with limestone does not directly increase its nitrogen content or add extra nutrients, it is an essential safety measure to prevent potential hazards associated with its use.