What is hydroponics?

Hydroponics refers specifically to the method of cultivating plants without the use of soil, instead employing a nutrient-rich water solution to deliver essential minerals and nutrients directly to the plant roots. This soil-less farming technique allows for more efficient absorption of nutrients and can lead to faster growth rates, a higher density of plants per area, and less water usage compared to conventional farming. Hydroponics also enables the growth of plants in environments where traditional agriculture may be challenging due to soil quality or climate conditions.

Other options do not accurately define hydroponics. The reference to solid waste in option A incorrectly suggests that soil or a soil-like medium is involved, which is not characteristic of hydroponic systems. Option C speaks to enhancing soil health, which is unrelated as hydroponics eliminates soil altogether. Lastly, option D describes traditional farming practices that rely on soil, distinctly different from the hydroponic approach.