'Nitrolim' is a mixture of? (a) \(\mathrm{CaCN}_{2}\) and \(\mathrm{N}_{2}\). (b) \(\mathrm{CaCN}_{2}\) and graphite. (c) \(\mathrm{CaC}_{2}\) and graphite. (d) \(\mathrm{Ca}(\mathrm{CN})_{2}\) and graphite.

Calcium cyanamide, with the chemical formula \( \mathrm{CaCN}_2 \), is a critical compound used as a fertilizer in the agricultural sector. It is produced from the reaction of calcium carbide (\( \mathrm{CaC}_2 \)) with nitrogen at high temperatures.

An interesting property of calcium cyanamide is its ability to release nitrogen slowly into the soil, which is essential for plant growth. Unlike other nitrogenous fertilizers that may cause a sudden surge of nitrogen, calcium cyanamide gradually improves the nitrogen content in the soil, ensuring a sustained nutrient supply to the crops. This characteristic is crucial because it helps to prevent the leaching of nitrogen into water bodies, thus reducing environmental pollution.

The use of calcium cyanamide as a fertilizer also helps to control soil pests and diseases, owing to its fungicidal and bactericidal properties. The compound acts as a soil conditioner, improving the structural composition of the soil and thereby enhancing its fertility.

Fertilizers are pivotal components in modern agriculture, providing essential nutrients that promote plant growth, health, and productivity. They mainly supply the soil with macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as various micronutrients that plants require in smaller quantities.

The chemistry of fertilizers is significant because different plants have specific nutritional needs that must be met for optimal growth. For example, nitrogen, a key element in fertilizers like calcium cyanamide, is vital for the synthesis of amino acids and chlorophyll.

Types of Fertilizers

Fertilizers can be classified into two broad categories: organic and inorganic. Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as compost, manure, and bone meal, while inorganic fertilizers are synthetically manufactured, often providing targeted nutrition with quick-release formulas.

When applying fertilizers to the soil, it is essential to consider the chemical interactions with existing soil components and the potential environmental impact. Overuse of synthetic fertilizers can lead to soil acidification, nutrient runoff, and water pollution.

Identifying chemical formulas is a foundational skill in chemistry that allows students and scientists to understand and communicate the composition of chemical compounds. A chemical formula represents the types and quantities of atoms in a molecule. For instance, in the calcium cyanamide formula \( \mathrm{CaCN}_2 \), the 'Ca' symbolizes a single calcium atom, while the 'CN' part refers to a cyanamide ion, and the subscript '2' indicates that there are two cyanamide groups present.

Understanding Subscripts and Coefficients

It is essential to differentiate between subscripts and coefficients. Subscripts, as seen in \( \mathrm{CaCN}_2 \), denote the number of atoms or ions of a particular element within the compound. In contrast, coefficients tell us the number of molecules or formula units involved in a reaction and are placed before the formula.

By mastering the skill of chemical formula identification, students can predict the properties of compounds, balance chemical equations, and understand the relationships between different substances, which is invaluable in tasks such as selecting the appropriate fertilizer for a specific agricultural application.