Q.69 Which element is responsible for causing soil salinity? At what concentration does the soil become saline?

 

Ans. Soil salinity is the salt content in the soil, which is caused by improper irrigation. The process of increasing salt content is termed as salinization.

Causes of Soil Salinity The high salt concentration of soil is caused by an improper irrigation method from a salt-laden water table. When salt concentration in soil is increased, then it gets accumulated due to evaporation.

Human activities like fertilizing crops are also responsible for the salinity of the soil. As fertilizer contain potassium, which can form a naturally occurring salt-sylvite. The salinity of soil degrades soil and vegetation. Normally the pH value of soil comprises between 2.2-9.7, while above which the soil is degrading by salt content.