What is the use of biochar in farming?Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in vertica

Q: What is UPSC Prelims?

UPSC Prelims is a competitive examination conducted in India. This question is from the 2020 UPSC Prelims Environment & Ecology paper.

Q: How can I prepare for UPSC Prelims Environment & Ecology?

To prepare for UPSC Prelims Environment & Ecology, practice previous year questions (PYQs), understand concepts thoroughly, and solve mock tests regularly. This 2020 question covers Biogeochemical Cycles – Carbon, Nitrogen, Water & Phosphorus topic.

Q: What is the difficulty level of this question?

This UPSC Prelims 2020 Environment & Ecology question has a hard difficulty level.

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Question

What is the use of biochar in farming?Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in vertical farming.When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms.When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it enables the growing medium to retain water for longer time.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Accepted Answer

Correct Answer: D — 1, 2 and 3Step-by-step Solution:Biochar is a carbon‑rich, porous solid produced by pyrolysis (heating biomass without oxygen). Its uses in farming:1. Vertical farming medium: Correct. Biochar is used as a soilless growing medium in hydroponics and vertical farming. ✓2. Promotes nitrogen‑fixing microorganisms: Correct. Biochar provides habitat for beneficial microbes, including nitrogen‑fixing bacteria, enhancing soil fertility. ✓3. Water retention: Correct. Biochar's porous structure holds water, increasing the growing medium's water‑holding capacity and reducing irrigation needs. ✓Why other options are incorrect:Option A (1 and 2): Misses water retention.Option B (2 only): Misses 1 and 3.Option C (1 and 3): Misses promotion of nitrogen‑fixing microbes.Key Concept: Biochar also sequesters carbon in soil for centuries, mitigating climate change. It reduces N₂O emissions and increases nutrient use efficiency. The Indian government promotes biochar production from crop residue to reduce stubble burning.

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More Questions from Biogeochemical Cycles – Carbon, Nitrogen, Water & Phosphorus

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More Questions from Biogeochemical Cycles – Carbon, Nitrogen, Water & Phosphorus

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