Which soil type has the highest Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)?

Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) is a crucial property of soil that reflects its ability to hold and exchange positively charged ions, known as cations, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. The amount of CEC in a soil is influenced significantly by its texture and mineral composition.

Clay soil possesses the highest CEC primarily due to its small particle size and large surface area. Clay particles are negatively charged and can attract and retain cations effectively. This characteristic makes clay soil particularly valuable in agriculture since it can hold essential nutrients in the root zone, making them available for plant uptake.

In contrast, sandy soil, with its larger particles and lower surface area, has a much lower CEC, making it less able to hold cations. Silty soil, though it has a moderate CEC, does not reach the levels seen in clay soils. Loamy soil, being a combination of sand, silt, and clay, offers a balance of drainage and nutrient retention but still does not achieve the high CEC associated with clay soil.

Therefore, the understanding of Cation Exchange Capacity is essential in agriculture as it directly impacts soil fertility and the management of nutrients for optimal plant growth. Clay soil's ability to hold and exchange cations defines