What is correct in case C : N ratio during composting is narrow then optimal level of 30 - 35 ?
MH SET - 2018, SET Exam - 2018,
Answer: A
When the C : N ratio is too narrow, nitrogen in the compost is lost as ammonia.
Composting microbes need carbon for energy and nitrogen for protein, in a ratio of roughly 25-35 to 1 at the start. If there is too little carbon for the nitrogen present (a narrow ratio, as in fresh manure or green waste alone), the microbes cannot use all the nitrogen, and the surplus is released as ammonia gas. That causes odour and robs the finished compost of nutrient value.
A wide ratio, too much carbon, is what slows or protracts composting. The other two options describe no recognised effect of the C : N ratio.
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