Q. What is the use of biochar in farming?

  1. ‘Biochar can be used as a part of the growing medium in vertical farming.
  2. When biochar is a part of the growing medium, it promotes the growth of nitrogen fixing microorganisms.
  3. 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?

  • 1 and 2 only
  • 2 only
  • 1 and 3 only
  • 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Notes:

  • Biochar, a charcoal-like material produced by heating biomass in the absence of oxygen.
  • It is the direct thermal decomposition of biomass in the absence of oxygen (preventing combustion).
    • The use of biochar in vertical farming can increase output significantly.
  • Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich form of charcoal that is applied to the soil.
  • Biochar has the potential to boost the natural ability of legumes to fix nitrogen in the soil.
    • Biochar supporting the life of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, biochar can also decrease soil nitrogen emission.
    • And also increase nitrogen use efficiency and nitrogen retention in the soil.
  • Because of its porous nature, biochar can improve your soil’s water retention.
    • Thereby plants will have more water available to them for a longer period of time. 
Biochar