What pH level indicates an alkaline soil condition?

An alkaline soil condition is characterized by a pH level that is above 7. This indicates that the soil has more basic properties, with higher concentrations of hydroxide ions compared to hydrogen ions. Soils with a pH above 7 can influence nutrient availability to plants and may affect the overall health of the ecosystem.

To understand further, a pH of exactly 7 signifies a neutral soil, where the balance between hydrogen and hydroxide ions is equal. A pH below 7 indicates acidic conditions, where hydrogen ions are more prevalent. The range of 5.0 to 5.5 also represents an acidic environment, further supporting that this range cannot categorize soil as alkaline. Thus, the only choice that directly reflects an alkaline soil condition is one that indicates a pH above 7.