ANS:B - triple superphosphate

Triple superphosphate (TSP) is a widely used phosphatic fertilizer known for its high phosphorus content. Here's an explanation of triple superphosphate:

1. Composition: Triple superphosphate is primarily composed of water-soluble phosphate (usually in the form of calcium dihydrogen phosphate, 𝐶𝑎(𝐻2𝑃𝑂4)2Ca(H2PO4)2) along with some calcium sulfate (𝐶𝑎𝑆𝑂4CaSO4). It contains phosphorus in a highly concentrated form, typically ranging from 44% to 52% phosphorus pentoxide (𝑃2𝑂5P2O5).
2. Manufacturing Process: The production of triple superphosphate involves the reaction of rock phosphate with phosphoric acid to form mono-calcium phosphate. This mono-calcium phosphate is then reacted with sulfuric acid to produce triple superphosphate. The chemical reactions involved in this process convert the phosphate in rock phosphate into a form that is more readily available for plant uptake.
3. Water Solubility: Triple superphosphate is highly water-soluble, which allows for rapid release of phosphorus into the soil solution upon application. This rapid solubility makes phosphorus more available to plants, promoting early root development and enhancing crop growth.
4. Phosphorus Availability: The phosphorus in triple superphosphate is in the water-soluble form, making it immediately available to plants upon application. However, the availability of phosphorus from triple superphosphate decreases over time as it undergoes conversion to other forms in the soil.
5. Application: Triple superphosphate is typically applied to soil before planting or as a side dressing during the growing season. It is suitable for a wide range of crops, including cereals, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. The application rate of triple superphosphate depends on the phosphorus requirements of the specific crop and the soil's phosphorus status.
6. Benefits: Triple superphosphate provides a concentrated source of phosphorus, which is essential for various plant metabolic processes, including energy transfer, nucleic acid synthesis, and root development. It promotes vigorous early growth, improves flowering and fruiting, and enhances overall crop yield and quality.
7. Limitations: While triple superphosphate is an effective phosphorus fertilizer, it does not contain other essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N) or potassium (K). Therefore, it is often used in combination with other fertilizers to provide a balanced nutrient supply to plants.

Overall, triple superphosphate is a valuable phosphatic fertilizer that provides readily available phosphorus to plants, promoting healthy growth and maximizing crop productivity. Its high water solubility and rapid phosphorus release make it a popular choice for agricultural use, especially in situations where immediate phosphorus availability is critical for crop establishment and development. The chemical formula 𝐶𝑎𝐻4(𝑃𝑂4)2CaH4​(PO4​)2​ corresponds to calcium phosphate. Calcium phosphate is a group of compounds that contain calcium ions (𝐶𝑎2+Ca2+) and phosphate ions (𝑃𝑂43−PO43−​). It is an important mineral found in rocks, bones, and teeth. Calcium phosphate compounds play various roles in biological systems, including serving as structural components of bones and teeth, regulating cellular processes, and providing essential nutrients for plant growth. In the context of fertilizers, calcium phosphate compounds are commonly used as a source of phosphorus, an essential nutrient for plant growth. Depending on the specific composition and processing, calcium phosphate fertilizers can include various forms such as mono-calcium phosphate (MCP), di-calcium phosphate (DCP), and tri-calcium phosphate (TCP). These compounds provide both calcium and phosphorus to plants, supporting their development and overall health.