Question

Discus the significance of cation exchange reactions in soils

Answer 1

Cation exchange in soils involves replacement of a cation from a soil surface by another cation. The most abundant exchangeable cations are calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and aluminium that are held in soils by negatively-charged colloids - clay and himus particles. Cation exchange capacity of soils affects the ability of soils to keep essential minerals and nutrients and to maintain optimal pH. As a result, high cation exchange capacity indicates good soil fertility and provides increased production of crops.