With respect to organic matter which of the following statements is incorrect?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When evaluating statements about organic matter in soil, a systematic check of typical properties helps distinguish accuracy from misconception.
Option 1: 'Has a low cation exchange capacity' — This is incorrect. Organic matter actually increases soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) because humic substances and other organic components provide numerous exchange sites that hold positively charged ions. Saying it has a low CEC misrepresents its role. 
Option 2: 'Makes soil more acidic' — This is not generally true. Organic matter tends to buffer soil pH and can help stabilize pH, though decomposition can release certain acids locally; overall, organic matter is associated with improved buffering capacity rather than a universal acidification, so the blanket claim of making soil more acidic is misleading. 
Option 3: 'Is a source of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur' — This is largely true, especially for nitrogen via mineralization of organic N, and sulfur through organic-S compounds; phosphorus is present in organic forms that can become available upon mineralization, so organic matter serves as a nutrient reservoir. 
Option 4: 'Improves aggregation of clay soils' — This is correct. Humus and organic matter promote soil structure by binding clay particles, improving porosity and aggregate stability. 
In summary, the statement that conflicts with established knowledge is Option 1, which claims a low CEC for organic matter; in reality, organic matter enhances CEC, making this option incorrect. The other options align with common understandings of organic matter’s roles in soil chemistry, nutrition, and structure.

AGRI30037_2025_SM1 Quiz 2- Requires Respondus LockDown Browser

With respect to organic matter which of the following statements is incorrect?

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