Question

State two importance of soil

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

1) Soil provides a medium for plant growth and a source of essential nutrients. It is the foundation for agriculture, providing a habitat for plants to grow and thrive. The nutrients present in soil, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are essential for plant growth and productivity. Without soil, food production and the growth of natural vegetation would be severely limited.

2) Soil acts as a natural filter and purifier. It contributes to the quality and availability of water by filtering contaminants and facilitating water infiltration and recharge of groundwater. Soil also plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change as it stores carbon dioxide, hence reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, healthy soil supports a diverse range of organisms, including beneficial bacteria and fungi, which contribute to soil fertility and nutrient cycling.