n.

The study of the physical and mental development and characteristics of children.

[PEDO–² + –LOGY.]

pedologic pe'do·log'ic (-də-lŏj'ĭk) or pe'do·log'i·cal (-ĭ-kəl) adj.
pedologically pe'do·log'i·cal·ly adv.
pedologist pe·dol'o·gist n.
pe·dol·o·gy² (pĭ-dŏl'ə-jē, pĕ-)
n.

The scientific study of soils, including their origins, characteristics, and uses.

[PEDO–¹ + –LOGY.]

pedologic ped'o·log'ic (pĕd'l-ŏj'ĭk) or ped'o·log'i·cal (-ĭ-kəl) adj.
pedologically ped'o·log'i·cal·ly adv.
pedologist pe·dol'o·gist n.

Defined narrowly, a science that is concerned with the nature and arrangement of horizons in soil profiles; the physical constitution and chemical composition of soils; the occurrence of soils in relation to one another and to other elements of the environment such as climate, natural vegetation, topography, and rocks; and the modes of origin of soils. Pedology so defined does not include soil technology, which is concerned with uses of soils.

Broadly, pedology is the science of the nature, properties, formation, distribution, and function of soils, and of their response to use, management, and manipulation. The first definition is widely used in the United States and less so in other countries. The second definition is worldwide. See also Soil; Soil mechanics.

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The science of soils: their characteristics, development, and distribution.

For more information on pedology, visit Britannica.com.

[Ge]

Study and analysis of soils, in particular their origins, development, character, and distribution.