Question

why is air present in the soil important for plants

Answer 1

Air in the soil is necessary for different biological events to take place. Plants uptake air through their roots, that is, they breath through them, absorbing oxygen and giving off carbon dioxide. This is the opposite of the process of photosynthesis, where the leaf takes in carbon monoxide and releases oxygen, and it is necessary for the plant cells. Underwater plants like rice actually have air pockets in their roots to allow them to respire.

Air in the soil also enables microorganisms that break down organic matter to live and reproduce. This, in turn, converts organic debris into smaller particles which can benefit the growing plant as the organic matter releases nutrients into the soil.