True or False: As pH increases, base saturation decreases.

The statement "As pH increases, base saturation decreases" is false. As soil pH increases, indicating a more alkaline environment, base saturation typically increases. Base saturation refers to the proportion of soil cation exchange capacity occupied by base cations such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. An increase in pH usually means that these basic cations are more prevalent in the soil, leading to higher base saturation.

In acidic soils, which have lower pH levels, there is often a higher presence of acidic cations such as hydrogen and aluminum, which can lead to lower base saturation. However, as soil conditions shift toward a higher pH (more alkaline), the dominance of base cations increases, thus enhancing base saturation.

While soil type can influence both pH and base saturation, the direct relationship of increasing pH leading to increasing base saturation holds true for most soil types. Therefore, the assertion in the original statement is incorrect, making the correct response that the statement is false.