Consider the following statements regarding fertilisers: 1. They are natural organic substances obtained from plant decomposition. 2. They are very rich in plant nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. 3. Excessive use of fertilisers can make the soil less fertile. Which of the statements given above are correct?

The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only. Explanation To answer this question, it is necessary to distinguish between fertilizers and manure. While both are used to enhance soil productivity, they differ significantly in their source, composition, and long-term impact on soil health. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Incorrect. Fertilizers are generally inorganic salts or commercially synthesized organic compounds (such as urea) prepared in factories. The description "natural organic substances obtained from the decomposition of cattle dung and plant residues" refers to manure, not fertilizers. - Statement 2 is Correct. Fertilizers are manufactured to be nutrient-specific and concentrated. They are very rich in essential plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). In contrast, manure contains nutrients in small quantities and is primarily used to add organic matter (humus) to the soil. - Statement 3 is Correct. While fertilizers increase crop yields in the short term, their continuous and excessive use can degrade soil health. It can alter the soil chemistry (making it too acidic or alkaline), reduce soil porosity, and harm beneficial soil microorganisms, ultimately making the soil less fertile. Key Takeaway Fertilizers are nutrient-rich, factory-made inorganic substances that do not provide humus to the soil. Manure is a natural, humus-rich organic substance obtained from decomposition that improves soil texture but is less nutrient-dense.

NCERT Class 8 Science — Chapter 1: Crop production and management

mcqmedium

Consider the following statements regarding fertilisers:

They are natural organic substances obtained from plant decomposition.
They are very rich in plant nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Excessive use of fertilisers can make the soil less fertile.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 2 only
B2 only
C2 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

To answer this question, it is necessary to distinguish between fertilizers and manure. While both are used to enhance soil productivity, they differ significantly in their source, composition, and long-term impact on soil health.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect. Fertilizers are generally inorganic salts or commercially synthesized organic compounds (such as urea) prepared in factories. The description "natural organic substances obtained from the decomposition of cattle dung and plant residues" refers to manure, not fertilizers.
Statement 2 is Correct. Fertilizers are manufactured to be nutrient-specific and concentrated. They are very rich in essential plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). In contrast, manure contains nutrients in small quantities and is primarily used to add organic matter (humus) to the soil.
Statement 3 is Correct. While fertilizers increase crop yields in the short term, their continuous and excessive use can degrade soil health. It can alter the soil chemistry (making it too acidic or alkaline), reduce soil porosity, and harm beneficial soil microorganisms, ultimately making the soil less fertile.

Key Takeaway

Fertilizers are nutrient-rich, factory-made inorganic substances that do not provide humus to the soil. Manure is a natural, humus-rich organic substance obtained from decomposition that improves soil texture but is less nutrient-dense.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Crop production and management

Which one of the following is an organic soil amendment derived from the decomposition of plant or animal waste?

easy

With reference to the cropping patterns in India, consider the following statements: 1. Kharif crops are generally sown in the rainy season which spans from June to September. 2. Wheat, gram, and mustard are examples of Kharif crops. 3. Rabi crops are grown during the winter season from October to March. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

easy

Consider the following statements regarding the preparation of soil: 1. Loosening the soil makes it compact and prevents root penetration. 2. Turning the soil brings nutrient-rich soil to the top for plant utilization. 3. Loosened soil promotes the growth of earthworms and soil microbes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

With reference to agricultural implements, consider the following statements: 1. A ploughshare is the strong triangular iron strip found in a plough. 2. A hoe is a tool used exclusively for sowing seeds. 3. A cultivator is a manual tool used for harvesting crops. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Consider the following statements regarding the sowing of seeds: 1. Damaged seeds are generally lighter than healthy seeds and float on water. 2. The traditional tool for sowing seeds is shaped like a flat blade. 3. A seed drill ensures that seeds are covered by soil after sowing to protect them from birds. Which of the statements given above are correct?

medium

Keep practising Chapter 1: Crop production and management

Work through every question from this NCERT chapter.

Browse all NCERT Class 8 Science chapters

The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect. Fertilizers are generally inorganic salts or commercially synthesized organic compounds (such as urea) prepared in factories. The description "natural organic substances obtained from the decomposition of cattle dung and plant residues" refers to manure, not fertilizers.
Statement 2 is Correct. Fertilizers are manufactured to be nutrient-specific and concentrated. They are very rich in essential plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). In contrast, manure contains nutrients in small quantities and is primarily used to add organic matter (humus) to the soil.
Statement 3 is Correct. While fertilizers increase crop yields in the short term, their continuous and excessive use can degrade soil health. It can alter the soil chemistry (making it too acidic or alkaline), reduce soil porosity, and harm beneficial soil microorganisms, ultimately making the soil less fertile.