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Soil acidity refers to the presence of excess hydrogen ions (H⁺) in the soil, which lowers the soil’s pH and can negatively affect plant growth. Acidic soils reduce the availability of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while increasing the solubility of toxic elements like aluminum and manganese.
The most effective and widely used method to correct soil acidity is liming. Liming involves applying materials rich in calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) or magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃), such as agricultural lime, dolomite, or chalk, to the soil. These compounds neutralize the excess hydrogen ions, increasing the soil pH to a more suitable range for crops. Liming improves soil fertility, enhances nutrient availability, and promotes healthy root development.
Other options explained:
Proper irrigation → Helps in managing soil moisture but does not neutralize soil acidity.
Adding sodium hydroxide (NaOH) → While it can neutralize acids in theory, it is highly caustic and unsafe for agricultural use.
Application of fertilizers → Some fertilizers can even increase soil acidity if used excessively, such as ammonium-based fertilizers.
Liming is a sustainable, safe, and cost-effective method widely practiced in agriculture and horticulture. The process not only reduces soil acidity but also improves soil structure and microbial activity, enhancing overall soil health.
In summary, the correct answer is Liming, as it effectively neutralizes acidic soils and makes them suitable for optimal plant growth.
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