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    Question

    Which of the following statements is/are true about soil pH and nutrient availability?

    Statement A: Most essential plant nutrients are readily available to plants at neutral pH (pH 7).

    Statement B: Acidic soils (low pH) tend to have reduced availability of nutrients like phosphorus (P).

    Statement C: Alkaline soils (high pH) promote the uptake of micronutrients such as iron (Fe).

    A Only A is correct. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Only B is correct. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Only C is correct. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D A and B are correct. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    Most essential plant nutrients are readily available to plants at neutral pH (around pH 7). This is the pH range where nutrient solubility and plant root uptake are optimized. Acidic soils (low pH) tend to have reduced availability of nutrients like phosphorus (P). In acidic conditions, phosphorus becomes less soluble and may form insoluble compounds, limiting its uptake by plant roots. Alkaline soils (high pH) can actually limit the availability of certain micronutrients, such as iron (Fe). In alkaline conditions, iron can become less soluble and less accessible to plants.

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