Which type of nitrogen has a higher leaching potential?

Water-soluble nitrogen has a higher leaching potential primarily due to its solubility in water, which facilitates its movement through the soil profile and into groundwater. When applied to the soil, this type of nitrogen can easily dissolve and be transported away by rainfall or irrigation, especially in sandy or well-drained soils where water movement is rapid.

In contrast, slow-release nitrogen forms are designed to release nutrients gradually, which helps to minimize the chances of leaching. Ammonia nitrogen is typically retained in the soil more effectively due to its tendency to adhere to soil particles, and organic nitrogen requires microbial activity to convert it into a form that plants can use, which occurs at a slower rate and thus is less prone to leaching immediately after application.