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  • Small clay particles hold calcium, potassium, and magnesium ions because their surfaces are  Option: 1 Smooth<div class=

Small clay particles hold calcium, potassium, and magnesium ions because their surfaces are

 

Option: 1

Smooth


Option: 2

Covered with tiny crevices


Option: 3

Negatively charged


Option: 4

Waxy


Answers (1)

best_answer

Small clay particles hold calcium, potassium, and magnesium ions because their surfaces are negatively charged. Clay minerals, such as montmorillonite, kaolinite, and illite, have a layered structure with a high surface area and a net negative charge on their surfaces. This negative charge arises from the substitution of certain elements within the mineral structure or the presence of broken bonds on the mineral surfaces.

The negatively charged surfaces of clay particles attract and retain positively charged ions such as calcium (Ca2+), potassium (K+), and magnesium (Mg2+). This phenomenon is known as cation exchange capacity (CEC). CEC refers to the ability of soil or clay particles to retain and release cations.

When these ions come into contact with clay particles, they are held on the surface by electrostatic forces. The negatively charged clay surfaces create an attraction for the positively charged ions, allowing them to be adsorbed or held onto the clay particles.

The ability of clay particles to hold onto these ions is important for soil fertility and plant nutrition. The adsorbed ions can be released into the soil solution when plants require them, and new ions can be adsorbed when they are available in the soil solution. This cation exchange process helps maintain a reservoir of essential nutrients for plant uptake and contributes to the overall nutrient-holding capacity of the soil.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3.

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