Which of the following is a primary effect of industrial agriculture on soil health?

The primary effect of industrial agriculture on soil health is soil degradation and erosion. Industrial agriculture often involves practices such as monoculture, heavy use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery, which can lead to a significant loss of soil quality over time. The emphasis on large-scale crop production frequently results in the depletion of essential nutrients and organic matter in the soil, increasing the vulnerability to erosion.

Moreover, the intensive tillage used in industrial agriculture breaks down soil structure, reducing its ability to retain moisture and nutrients, which can ultimately exacerbate soil degradation. As topsoil is washed or blown away, the remaining soil can lose its fertility and ability to support healthy plant growth, leading to a cycle of declining soil health. This contrasts with options that suggest improvements in nutrient content, biodiversity, or soil structure, which industrial agriculture is not generally associated with.