Soil Fertility and Soil Productivity - CHM031

These flashcards cover key concepts related to soil fertility and productivity as outlined in the lecture notes for CHM031: Chemistry for Engineers.

What is soil fertility?

The ability of soil to provide nutrients in proper quantities and in a balanced way for the growth of plants.

What factors affect soil productivity?

Soil productivity is affected by factors other than soil fertility, such as weeds and farming methods.

Define leaching in the context of soil.

Leaching is the loss of water-soluble plant nutrients in soil, commonly affecting highly soluble nutrients like nitrogen.

What is soil erosion?

Soil erosion occurs when the top fertile soil is carried away by moving water and/or wind.

What is monocropping?

The practice of growing one type of crop on a piece of land for long periods of time, leading to nutrient exhaustion.

What can cause a change in soil pH?

Inappropriate use of fertilizers, especially acidic fertilizers over long periods, can change soil pH.

What are organic fertilizers?

Natural substances added to soil to increase its fertility, feeding both the soil and microorganisms.

What nutrients do chemical fertilizers provide?

Chemical fertilizers provide plant-nutrients, typically nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Describe the term 'O horizon' in soil classification.

The O horizon is the surface litter layer consisting of humus or organic matter in varying stages of decomposition.

What is the significance of soil colloids?

Soil colloids determine the physical and chemical properties of soil, including nutrient and water retention.