Soil ph
Soil pH
Soil pH (/soʊl piːˈeɪtʃ/) is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity in soils.
Etymology
The term "pH" is derived from the French "pouvoir hydrogène" which translates to "hydrogen power". It was first introduced by the Danish biochemist S.P.L. Sørensen in 1909.
Definition
Soil pH is defined as the negative logarithm (base 10) of the activity of hydronium ions (H+) in a solution. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A pH below 7 is acidic, and a pH above 7 is alkaline.
Importance
Soil pH is crucial as it influences the soil's microbial activity and availability of nutrients to plants. It affects the solubility of nutrients and minerals, the activity of soil organisms, and the behavior of pesticides and other chemicals.
Measurement
Soil pH can be measured in the field using a simple test kit or a portable pH meter, or in the lab using a more sophisticated pH meter.
Related Terms
- Acidic Soil: Soil with a pH value less than 7.
- Alkaline Soil: Soil with a pH value greater than 7.
- Neutral Soil: Soil with a pH value of 7.
- Lime Requirement: The amount of lime required to neutralize the acidity in the soil.
- Soil Buffering Capacity: The ability of a soil to resist changes in pH.
See Also
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