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Question

A farmer has been using calcium for decades to help maintain chemical balance in the soil used to grow his crops. Unfortunately, the farmer's calcium supplier has been steadily increasing the price of their product to the point that the farmer no longer wants to buy calcium. Assuming they are offered at the same, cheaper price, should the farmer turn to magnesium (Mg) or potassium (K) as a new soil nutrient? Explain your answer using concepts we discussed in class (i.e. NOT Google). 

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Answer 1

Magnesium (Mg)

Calcium, usually in the form of calcium carbonate (chalk), is used to decrease the acidity of soil, making it more favorable for cultivation of most crops.

Magnesium carbonate (mineral dolomite) will have the same effect on soil pH.

Potassium acts differently. It is one of the main nutrients nesessary for biomass synthesis: agrochemistry term for those macronutrients in soils and fertilizers is NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.