Question

Explain with chemical equations what “leaching nutrients from soil” looks like

Answer 1

In agriculture, leaching refers to the loss of water-soluble plant nutrients from the soil, due torain and irrigation. Soil structure, crop planting, type and application rates of fertilizers, and other factors are taken into account to avoid excessive nutrient loss.

Leaching is an environmental concern when it contributes to groundwater contamination. As water from rain, flooding, or other sources seeps into the ground, it can dissolve chemicals and carry them into the underground water supply. Of particular concern are hazardous waste dumps and landfills, and, in agriculture, excessfertilizer,improperly stored animal manure, and biocides (e.g. pesticides, fungicides, insecticides and herbicides).