Answer to Question #150053 in General Chemistry for shahla

Question

A farmer has been using calcium for decades to help maintain chemical balance in the soil used to grow his crops. Unfortunately, the farmer's calcium supplier has been steadily increasing the price of their product to the point that the farmer no longer wants to buy calcium. Assuming they are offered at the same, cheaper price, should the farmer turn to magnesium (Mg) or potassium (K) as a new soil nutrient?

Answer 1

Plants require a number of nutrients for own growth. They are mutually substitutive.

This is explained by the ecological law of fundamental factors irreplaceability (Williams law).

Therefore, the farmer cannot turn to magnesium (Mg) or potassium (K) as a new soil nutrient.