In the activity you saw that crops do best within a very specific pH in the soil. Why do crops not do as well in soil that has too high or too low a pH level

Crops do not do as well in soil that has too high or too low a pH level because pH affects the availability of nutrients in the soil. When the pH is too high (alkaline) or too low (acidic), essential nutrients for plant growth become less available or may become toxic to the plants. This can result in nutrient deficiencies, stunted growth, and poor overall health of the crops. Additionally, extreme pH levels can also affect the activity of soil microorganisms that play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil health. Therefore, it is important to maintain the optimal pH level in the soil to ensure optimal growth and productivity of crops.