The correct answer is: a) Soil degradation.
Excessive use of chemical fertilizers can lead to a number of problems, including soil degradation. Soil degradation is the loss of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil that make it productive. This can lead to a number of problems, including reduced crop yields, increased erosion, and water pollution.
Chemical fertilizers can contribute to soil degradation in a number of ways. First, they can leach out of the soil and pollute groundwater. Second, they can increase the acidity of the soil, which can make it difficult for plants to grow. Third, they can kill beneficial soil organisms, which play an important role in maintaining soil health.
To reduce the risk of soil degradation, it is important to use chemical fertilizers wisely. This means applying them only when necessary, using the correct amount, and rotating crops to avoid the build-up of salts in the soil. It is also important to use organic fertilizers, which can help to improve soil health and reduce the risk of pollution.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option b: Increased fertility. Chemical fertilizers can increase soil fertility in the short term, but they can also lead to soil degradation in the long term.
- Option c: Soil salinization. Chemical fertilizers can contribute to soil salinization, which is the buildup of salts in the soil. This can make it difficult for plants to grow.
- Option d: Soil rejuvenation. Chemical fertilizers do not rejuvenate soil. In fact, they can actually damage soil health.