What is the scale used to measure soil acidity or alkalinity?

The pH scale is utilized to measure soil acidity or alkalinity, which is a crucial factor in determining soil health and its suitability for various types of crops. The scale runs from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. A pH value below 7 indicates acidic soil, while a value above 7 indicates alkaline soil. Soil pH significantly affects nutrient availability to plants, microbial activity, and overall soil chemistry.

In agronomy and horticulture, understanding the pH of the soil is vital for effective crop management practices. It allows farmers and gardeners to make informed decisions regarding soil amendments and crop selection, ensuring optimal growth conditions for their plants.

The other options refer to scales measuring different properties unrelated to soil chemistry. The moisture scale doesn't measure acidity; instead, it assesses the water content in soil. The nutrient scale would assess the levels of various essential nutrients in the soil but would not specifically address pH. The temperature scale measures heat levels, which is important for the growth of plants, but it does not measure soil acidity or alkalinity. Each of these other scales serves a different purpose in agriculture and soil science.