Urea, with the chemical formula NH₂CONH₂, is a widely used nitrogen fertilizer in agriculture. Here are its key features:

Nitrogen Content:

• Urea contains a high percentage of nitrogen, essential for plant growth.
• Nitrogen supports protein synthesis, chlorophyll formation, and overall plant health.

Advantages of Urea:

• Compatibility: Suitable for most plants, including grains.
• Stable Solutes: Does not significantly alter soil solute concentration.
• Residue: Leaves behind salt compounds in the soil.

Hydrolysis and Decomposition:

• In the soil, urea hydrolyzes into ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
• Soil bacteria further convert ammonia to nitrate (NO₃⁻), which plants absorb.

Solubility:

• Highly soluble in water, facilitating efficient distribution.
• Granular form preferred for ease of application.

Global Usage:

• Approximately 90% of global urea production serves agriculture.
• Among the most widely used solid nitrogen fertilizers.

Chemical Industry Applications:

• Raw Material: Urea is a crucial raw material in the chemical industry.
• Plastics Production: It contributes to the manufacture of various plastics, especially urea-formaldehyde resins.
• Glue Types: Urea is used in the production of glues such as urea-formaldehyde, melamine-formaldehyde, and urea nitrate.

In summary, urea fertilizer provides essential nitrogen, supporting healthy crop growth and robust yields. Its versatility makes it a staple in modern farming practices.