In a fertilizer labeled 23-6-3, which of the following correctly represents the components?

• A. 23% nitrogen, 6% Phosphoric acid, 4% potash
• B. 23% Phosphoric acid, 6% Nitrogen, 4% Potash
• C. 23% nitrogen, 6% potash, 4% phosphoric acid
• D. 23% nitrogen, 6% lime, 4% potash

Answer: (A)

Fertilizer labeling uses three numbers to show the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium by weight, in that order. The middle number accounts for phosphorus as phosphoric acid (P2O5), and the last number represents potassium as potash (K2O). Because the option lists 23% nitrogen, 6% phosphoric acid, and 4% potash, it follows the standard N-P2O5-K2O format and keeps the naming consistent, which is why it aligns with how a 23-6-3-style label is read. In a precise 23-6-3 label you’d expect potassium to be 3%, but the structure and units shown match the usual convention being tested. The other choices mix up which nutrient is nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium, or use unrelated terms, so they don’t fit the standard labeling pattern.