Q1: Ammonium nitrate is

ANS:D - mixed with limestone powder to reduce its explosive nature before using it as a fertilizer.

The correct statement regarding Ammonium Nitrate is: Mixed with limestone powder to reduce its explosive nature before using it as a fertilizer. Ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) is a common nitrogenous fertilizer with the chemical formula NH4NO3. It typically contains approximately 34-35% nitrogen by weight, which is equivalent to about 60-62% N2 (nitrogen). Therefore, the statement "having about 40% N2" is incorrect. Ammonium nitrate is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. This property can cause it to clump together or become caked if not properly stored. Hence, the statement "not hygroscopic" is incorrect. Ammonium nitrate is also prone to explosive thermal decomposition under certain conditions, particularly if exposed to high temperatures or if confined in a space. This has led to its use in the production of explosives and has raised safety concerns regarding its handling and storage. Therefore, the statement "not prone to explosive thermal decomposition" is incorrect. To mitigate the explosive nature of ammonium nitrate, it is often mixed with substances such as limestone powder (calcium carbonate) or dolomite (calcium magnesium carbonate). These materials act as diluents, reducing the overall concentration of ammonium nitrate and making it less susceptible to detonation. Therefore, the statement "mixed with limestone powder to reduce its explosive nature before using it as a fertilizer" is correct.