# Explain why farmers add fertilisers to soil and describe two nutrients commonly found in fertilisers.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 10.2 Fertilisers · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Fertilisers replace/supply essential elements (nutrients/minerals) that have been removed from the soil by crops
2. Fertilisers are needed to promote healthy/faster plant growth (or increase crop yield)
3. Nitrogen (N) is a nutrient found in fertilisers, needed for leaf/shoot growth or protein synthesis
4. Phosphorus (P) or potassium (K) is a nutrient found in fertilisers, with a correct use stated

## Key terms

- [fertiliser](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fertiliser)
- [nutrient](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/nutrient)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-farmers-add-fertilisers-to-cfa8a0d3) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.