Why would replacing nitrogen-based fertilizers with alternative materials help fight the greenhouse effect? A. nitrogen-based fertilizers can release methane into the atmosphere. B. Nitrogen-based fertilizers can release nitrous oxide into the atmosphere. C. Nitrogen-based fertilizers can prevent oxygen from entering the soil. D. Nitrogen-based fertilizers can leak nitrogen into groundwater.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. Nitrogen-based fertilizers can release nitrous oxide into the atmosphere.

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas that has a much greater warming potential than carbon dioxide (CO2). When nitrogen-based fertilizers are applied to soils, they can contribute to the release of nitrous oxide through microbial processes, especially when the fertilizers are over-applied or applied under conditions that promote denitrification. By replacing these fertilizers with alternative materials that do not lead to nitrous oxide emissions, we can help mitigate their contribution to the greenhouse effect.