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Soil

Soil, by definition, is a earthly compound comprised of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) matter that is formed in several layers over millions of years. It is the very component of the Earth that plants need to root themselves and grow in in order to feed all animal life. There are many different types of soil across the globe for each continent and biome, and each type has its characteristics that depict what plants can grow where, when, and how. Questions and answers about soil can be asked and answered here.

10,730 Questions

Where is multani soil found?

Multani soil, also known as fuller's earth, is primarily found in Multan, Pakistan. This type of clayey soil is widely used for its absorption properties in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

What view did the new Republican Party and Free-Soil party share?

Both the new Republican Party and the Free-Soil party shared opposition to the expansion of slavery into new U.S. territories. They believed in limiting the spread of slavery to preserve the rights of free labor and the economic opportunities of white settlers.

What characteristics of soil determine how much water soils can hold?

The characteristics of soil that determine how much water it can hold include its texture, structure, and organic matter content. Soil with small particles like clay can hold more water than sandy soil due to greater surface area for water retention. Soil structure influences porosity and water infiltration, while organic matter helps retain moisture by improving soil structure and holding capacity.

Which type of soil erosion causes the Chambal ravines?

It seems that Chambal ravines looks like sodic columns which are alkalinity effected soils. Soil is degraded when it comes in contact with water having high Sodium and less Calcium content in dissolved form and is measured by the property called Sodium absorption ratio. These ravines are devoid of any vegetative cover also which is an indication of Alkalinity. The land is not graded because the river floods wash off the loose soil and forms gullies left over by the hard sodic columns. These ravines are located in good rainfall area but the salt in the ground water seepage from the upland hills and the salts transported by irrigation canal water seem to be the causes for forming barren sodic soils.

These soils can be made fertile by depressing the water table by pumping water on the surface and injecting carbon dioxide to reduce the PH value. The low pH water would dissolve the calcium in the soil / supplemented lime stone to make up the calcium deficiency in the water. Also water of Chambal river may contain very high sodium because it is located in semi arid region.

What is c horizon in soil made up of?

The C horizon in soil is typically composed of partially weathered parent material, such as bedrock or unconsolidated sediment. It is the layer of soil closest to the bedrock and contains little to no organic matter.

What role does water-holding capacity have in agriculture?

Water holding capacity refers to how well the soil holds water. Good holding capacity is important because without it, farmers are required to install an irrigation system. Soil with good water holding capacity means higher profits for crop growers.

Why a fertile soil is not necessarily a productive soil?

A fertile soil contains essential nutrients required for plant growth, but other factors such as soil structure, drainage, and pH levels also play a crucial role in determining soil productivity. If these factors are not optimal, even a soil with high fertility may not be productive as plants may struggle to access or utilize the nutrients effectively.

What are some ways soil get polluted?

Soil can get polluted through activities such as industrial waste disposal, agricultural runoff of pesticides and fertilizers, improper disposal of household chemicals, underground storage tank leaks, and mining operations. Pollution can also occur through deposition of air pollutants and improper landfill management.

What happens when rain falls on soil without vegetational cover?

When rain falls on soil without vegetational cover, there is a higher risk of soil erosion. This is because the rain can directly impact the soil, leading to runoff and loss of topsoil. In turn, this can cause degradation of land quality and potentially lead to issues such as landslides and decreased soil fertility.

How are soil renewed and water recycled?

Soil is renewed through processes like weathering of rocks, decomposition of organic matter, and nutrient cycling. Water is recycled through the water cycle, where water evaporates from oceans and land, forms clouds, precipitates as rain or snow, and then flows back into oceans, rivers, and groundwater. Both soil renewal and water recycling are essential for sustaining life on Earth.

What is the difference between soil water and groundwater?

Soil water refers to the water contained in the pore spaces between soil particles and is subject to evaporation and transpiration by plants. Groundwater, on the other hand, is water that is located beneath the Earth's surface in saturated pore spaces within rock or soil and moves slowly through underground aquifers.

Why does sand work better than soil at filtration?

Sand is composed of larger particles with more spaces between them, allowing for better flow of water. This porous structure helps to trap and remove impurities from the water more efficiently than soil, which has smaller particles and less open spaces. Additionally, sand is less likely to compact over time, maintaining its filtration capabilities.

What is rich black silt?

Rich black silt is a fertile type of soil that is high in organic matter. It is typically dark in color and has a high nutrient content, making it ideal for supporting plant growth. Rich black silt is often found in areas with frequent flooding or near riverbanks.

Where is some of the worlds most fertile soil at?

The area around the Nile River Delta had some of the world's most naturally fertile soil. Unfortunately, in recent years the Egyptian government has dammed the Nile river for electricity production, preventing the river from flooding and depositing humus on it's shores. When the Nile did flood and recede, the fertility index of the soil around went from around a 10 to a 13

Does an isopod prefer cold soil?

Isopods generally prefer cool, moist environments but can survive in a range of temperatures. Cold soil may slow down their metabolism and activity levels, but it should not harm them as long as they have access to shelter and moisture.

How do trees help the soil from erosion?

By taking root and holding the dirt together. Also, by sheltering the topsoil from wind, heavy rain, and the impact of raindrops. Also, by drawing up groundwater to keep the topsoil moist and coherent. Also, by preventing rainwater from percolating through the soil to saline aquifers which would rise, salinising the soil and killing smaller plants with their roots &c. Also, by covering the soil with a protective layer of leaf litter. Also, by building up the soil with humus from decomposed leaf litter.

What is the soil mostly made of?

Soil is mostly made up of mineral particles (like sand, silt, and clay), organic matter (decaying plant and animal material), air, water, and living organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. The exact composition of soil can vary depending on factors like climate, vegetation, and underlying geology.

What climate feature do arctic climates and desert climates share that makes their soils similar?

Both arctic and desert climates have low precipitation levels, resulting in little moisture available to support vegetation growth. As a result, the soils in both climates tend to be dry, nutrient-poor, and often have a high salt content.

What is the wearing away of the earth's surface by the breakdown and transportation of rock and soil?

This process is known as erosion, which can be caused by factors such as water, wind, ice, and gravity. Erosion plays a significant role in shaping the Earth's landscape over time.

What is water that is muddy and dark from particles called?

Water that is muddy and dark from particles is called turbid water. Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness or haziness of a liquid caused by suspended solids.

What particles are in soil?

Soil particles typically include sand, silt, and clay. Sand particles are the largest, silt particles are medium-sized, and clay particles are the smallest. Organic matter, water, and air pockets also make up soil composition.

What is the most damaging method of soil remediation?

Chemical oxidation is considered one of the most damaging methods of soil remediation. It involves the injection of strong oxidants into the contaminated soil, which can lead to the generation of harmful byproducts and potential damage to the soil's natural ecosystem. It is important to carefully consider the potential risks and environmental impacts before selecting this method for soil remediation.

Is soil alive what does that mean?

Soil is not literally alive in the sense of being a living organism, but it does support a wide array of living organisms such as bacteria, fungi, insects, and earthworms. These organisms help break down organic matter, recycle nutrients, and contribute to the overall health and fertility of the soil.

What are different ways by which nitrogen in the air reaches the soil?

Most atmospheric nitrogen (N) exists as N2. Plants cannot use N in this form. The main ways this nitrogen enters soil in a plant usable form include:

  • N fixation by bacteria
  • Lightening caused atmospheric fixation

Fertilizer manufacturers also use atmospheric N when making N fertilizers.

Most of the N is fixated by bacteria, usually in association with a plant. Legumes, like beans, peas and clover, are especially famous for this. The plants provide the bacteria with food and an environment they can live in, and in exchange, they give the plant usable nitrogen compounds.

What does fullers earth look like?

Fuller's earth typically appears as a fine, light grayish-white powder. It has a smooth texture and is often used for its absorbent properties in various applications such as skin care products, industrial processes, and pet care.