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Abstract

Environmental Analysis & Ecology Studies

The Nitrogen Cycle in the Soil, Impact on the Environment

  • Open or Close Monica Butnariu*

    Banat’s University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Romania

    *Corresponding author: Monica Butnariu, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Banat’s University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine “King Michael I of Romania” from Timisoara, 300645, Calea Aradului 119, Timis, Romania

Submission: October 12, 2018; Published: November 26, 2018

DOI: 10.31031/EAES.2018.04.000593

ISSN: 2578-0336
Volume4 Issue4

Abstract

Environmental problems caused by nitrogen are generally associated with nitrate movement through drainage water to groundwater. They can reach fountains or surface waters, such as rivers, lakes and estuaries. Nitrate can contaminate drinking water and cause eutrophication and associated problems that may endanger the life of fish and other aquatic species. The amount of nitrate in drainage water depends on the speed of water percolation across the soil and the nitrate concentration in these drainage waters. Precipitation and irrigation rules, along with texture and soil structure, influence leaching. Leaving can also be accentuated by the use of soil conservation systems, which increase the infiltration of water and thereby increase leaching and, at the same time, losses of nitrates. Major losses can arise from the agricultural system where nitrogen inputs are usually in excess of plant and crop consumption. Nitrogen fertilization goes beyond what plants are capable of using and may be a major cause of excessive nitrate percolation. Efficient management of manure from livestock manufacturing facilities is another common case of nitrate contamination of groundwater and surface water. When it is added to the excess application of nitrogen fertilizers, manure can provide this element in much greater quantities than the need for plant consumption, which causes water and atmosphere pollution.

Keywords: Soil, Nitrogen, Environment, Nitrification, Denitrification

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