Question

Pollan states Haber's invention to synthetically fix nitrogen (i.e. the Haber-Bosch process) was one of the most important inventions of the 20th century because it:

A) Revolutionized medicine.
B) Enabled the production of synthetic fertilizers.
C) Accelerated transportation.
D) Improved communication technology.

Answer 1

The Haber-Bosch process, developed by Fritz Haber, played a critical role in enabling the production of synthetic fertilizers, a key factor in increasing agricultural productivity and supporting a larger human population.

Step-by-step explanation:

The invention by Fritz Haber, known as the Haber-Bosch process, is indeed considered one of the most significant inventions of the 20th century.

This process enabled the synthetic fixation of nitrogen, allowing for the large-scale production of ammonia, which in turn made the creation of synthetic fertilizers possible.

These fertilizers significantly increased the productivity of agriculture, making it possible to support a larger human population on the same amount of arable land.

The correct answer to the question is B) Enabled the production of synthetic fertilizers.