Soft water has __________ light penetration than harder water.

Soft water has lower light penetration than harder water due to its different chemical composition and the concentration of dissolved organic materials. Soft water, which often results from the leaching of organic matter in areas with little limestone, tends to contain higher levels of humic substances and organic acids. These substances can absorb and scatter light, making it less able to penetrate deeply into the water body.

In contrast, hard water contains higher mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, which can help to reduce the absorbance of light by keeping the water clearer and allowing more light to penetrate. This increased clarity in harder water can support photosynthesis and influence the growth of aquatic plants.

Understanding the relationship between water hardness and light penetration is essential for managing aquatic ecosystems effectively, particularly when considering the growth and health of aquatic plants and organisms that rely on light availability.