What is the most popular form of nitrogen fertilizer used for corn production?

The most popular form of nitrogen fertilizer used for corn production is urea. Urea is a synthetic nitrogen fertilizer that is highly effective and widely used due to its high nitrogen content (about 46% nitrogen by weight) and its ability to be easily transported and applied.

Urea is converted into ammonium and nitrate forms by soil microorganisms, supplying plants with the nitrogen they need for growth and development. This makes it particularly suitable for corn, which has high nitrogen requirements, especially during the active growth phase.

In addition to its effectiveness, the use of urea is often preferred because it is less voluminous than other forms of nitrogen fertilizers, reducing transportation and handling costs. It also has a relatively low risk of volatilization compared to other nitrogen sources. Combining these factors, urea has become a staple in corn production practices, making it the most popular form of nitrogen fertilizer used by farmers.