Farmers use ground limestone (CaCO₃) to raise the pH of the soil - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2020
Question 9
Farmers use ground limestone (CaCO₃) to raise the pH of the soil.
Which chemical element in ground limestone is the most important in raising the soil pH?
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:Farmers use ground limestone (CaCO₃) to raise the pH of the soil - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 9 - 2020
Step 1
Which chemical element in ground limestone is the most important in raising the soil pH?
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Answer
The most important chemical element in ground limestone (CaCO₃) for raising the soil pH is Calcium.
Step 2
State two ways in which a soil may become acidic.
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Answer
Crop removal or leaching can lead to a loss of basic cations, resulting in increased acidity.
The addition of certain fertilizers and animal manure, especially those high in nitrogen, can lower the soil pH.
Step 3
Describe how you would find the pH of a soil sample.
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Answer
To find the pH of a soil sample, follow these steps:
Add the soil sample to a beaker or suitable container.
Add distilled water (or deionised water) to the soil and stir the mixture thoroughly.
Use a filter or strainer to filter the mixture and collect the liquid part.
Insert a pH meter into this liquid to measure the pH, or use universal indicator solution or pH paper for comparison with a pH chart.
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