Which term describes the ability of negatively charged clay and organic particles in soil to hold and release positively charged nutrients?

The term that describes the ability of negatively charged clay and organic matter in soil to hold and release positively charged nutrients is Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC). CEC is a critical property in soil science because it measures how well soil can retain and supply cations to plant roots. Cations are positively charged ions, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth.

Soils with a high CEC can hold more nutrients and supply them to plants effectively, making them typically more fertile. Negatively charged clay and organic particles attract and bind these positively charged cations, allowing for nutrient exchange as plants uptake the nutrients they need. This process is essential for maintaining soil fertility and ensuring that plants have access to the necessary nutrients.

Soil pH pertains to the acidity or alkalinity of the soil and affects nutrient availability but is not a measure of nutrient retention itself. Soil texturing refers to the size distribution of soil particles (sand, silt, and clay) and influences drainage and aeration, rather than directly assessing nutrient exchange capacity. Soil composition pertains to the various components that make up the soil but does not specifically describe the functional aspect of nutrient retention and release.