Cranfield University

pH and soil acidity - Quiz

Answer each question below, then choose Check answers to see your score. You can reveal the correct responses after marking.

1 What does the pH of soil measure?

The number of bacteria in a teaspoonful of soil The number of seeds in a Poppy Head The acidity of the soil

2 Why do we need to know the soil's acidity?

To know what plants will grow well To know which soil organisms may be present To know which soil nutrients may be present All of the above

3 What is meant by acid in soil?

A measure of organic material in the soil Substances dissolving in water to release hydrogen ions Pollution from chemicals poured onto soil

4 Is very acid soil particularly fertile?

No Yes It doesn't make much difference

5 How do we measure soil acidity?

With a pH meter or special kit By seeing how tall plants are growing By tasting the soil

6 Is the local rock type likely to make any difference to the soil acidity

Yes - always No - never Certain rocks do affect soil acidity

7 Soil has a tendency to become more acidic. The pH can be improved by

Adding lime Adding potato peelings Growing grass as a lawn or a hay crop

8 What do the letters pH stand for?

Pernicious Hooplas Potenz Hydrogen Pedological Humbug

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