EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -But, over time, SOM can build to the point where significantly more nutrients are available in the soil than the plants are able to use. This is when the problem occurs; excess nutrients can harm plants and pollute our lakes, rivers and groundwater (including drinking water).

Detailed explanation-2: -environmental issues Loss of soil organic carbon content can limit the soil’s ability to provide nutrients for sustainable plant production. This may lead to lower yields and affect food security. Less organic carbon also means less food for the living organisms present in the soil, thus reducing soil biodiversity.

Detailed explanation-3: -Factors influencing the cation exchange capacity of soils Factors influencing the CEC include the soil type, the soil pH and the soil organic matter content. Soils are made up of sand, organic matter, silt and clay particles.

Detailed explanation-4: -The cation exchange capacity of a soil determines the number of positively-charged ions cations-that the soil can hold. This, in turn, can have a significant effect on the fertility management of the soil.