The primary purpose of adding agricultural lime to soil is to:

Adding agricultural lime to soil primarily serves to raise the pH of acidic soils. This is crucial because many crops thrive in a neutral to slightly acidic pH range. When soil pH is too low, it can lead to nutrient availability issues, as certain essential nutrients become less soluble and therefore less accessible to plants. By applying lime, which contains calcium carbonate, the acidity of the soil is neutralized, helping to create a more favorable environment for plant growth and improving overall soil fertility. Additionally, liming can enhance microbial activity in the soil, further promoting healthy plant development.