Question

A farmer was unhappy because of his low crop yield. He discussed the problem with an agricultural scientist and realized that the soil of his field was either too acidic or too basic. What remedy would you suggest to the farmer to neutralize the soil?

Answer 1

Soil:

1. Different plants require soils of different pH. Some need acidic soil while some need basic soil and the extreme of both is harmful to the plants and affects the crop yield.
2. Neutralization of soil is an important factor for crop production.
3. If the soil is too acidic, it should be treated using bases like quick lime (calcium oxide) or slaked lime (calcium hydroxide).
4. As an alkaline, calcium oxide serves as a base to neutralize acidic soils and raise their pH to $7$
5. Organic matter is added to soil that is too basic by itself. Acids that are released by organic materials balance out the soil's basic composition.

Therefore, the farmer should add bases like calcium oxide if the soil is too acidic or add organic matter if the soil is too basic in nature.