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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

Do all the soil develop at the same rate Why?

No, not all soils develop at the same rate. Factors like climate, parent material, topography, vegetation, and time influence soil formation. These factors vary from one location to another, leading to differences in soil development rates.

What is the deepest horizon layer?

The deepest horizon layer of the Earth is the inner core, which is located at a depth of about 5,150 kilometers (3,200 miles) beneath the Earth's surface. The inner core is primarily composed of solid iron and nickel, with temperatures reaching up to 5,700 degrees Celsius (10,300 degrees Fahrenheit).

In which process of water moving down through the soil called?

The process of water moving down through the soil is called infiltration. It refers to the movement of water from the ground surface into the soil.

Do high percentages of sand particles contribute to high porosity or low porosity soil?

High percentages of sand particles contribute to high porosity soil. This is because sand particles are large and create spaces between them, allowing for good drainage and aeration. Therefore, soils with a high sand content have more pore spaces, resulting in higher porosity.

What is a large channel in the soil that carries run off?

A large channel in the soil that carries runoff is called a "gully." Gullies are formed by the erosive force of water, often in hilly or sloped landscapes, and can significantly impact soil stability and water quality if left uncontrolled. Implementing erosion control measures, such as planting vegetation or building check dams, can help mitigate gully formation.

What two factors have the greatest infuence on soil formation?

Climate and parent material are considered to have the greatest influence on soil formation. Climate affects the rate of weathering and the type of vegetation that grows, while parent material determines the mineral composition and texture of the soil.

Do humus creates soil spaces which increase the soils ability to hold water?

Yes, humus helps to create soil spaces by improving soil structure through aggregation. This allows for better aeration and drainage, which in turn increases the soil's ability to hold water. Humus also acts like a sponge, absorbing and holding onto water for plant use.

What are the three things that are found in soils?

The three main components found in soils are minerals, organic matter, and water. Minerals provide essential nutrients for plant growth, organic matter improves soil structure and fertility, and water is necessary for plant uptake of nutrients and growth.

What does most of work of mixing humus within the soil?

Earthworms are the main contributors to enriching and improving soil for plants, animals and humans. Earthworms eat the soil which has organic matter such as decaying vegetation or leaves. After organic matter is digested, the earthworm releases waste from their bodies called castings. Castings contain many nutrients that plants can use.

What is tha ideal proportion of the soil particles in a loamy type of soil texture?

In loamy soil, the ideal proportion of soil particles is approximately 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay. This balance allows for good drainage, water retention, and fertility, making it ideal for plant growth.

How does summer fallow damage the soil?

Summer fallow can damage the soil by exposing it to erosion, compaction, and nutrient leaching. It can also lead to a decrease in soil organic matter and microbial activity, reducing the soil's ability to hold water and nutrients. Overall, extended periods of summer fallow can degrade soil health and fertility over time.

Is soil nonrenewable or renewable?

Soil is renewable because it can be replaced by nature.

How much soil does 1 gallon of diesel contaminate?

One gallon of diesel can contaminate up to 750,000 gallons of soil, depending on the concentration and type of diesel fuel spilled. Diesel contamination can have a significant impact on soil quality and can persist for a long time if not properly remediated.

What does parent material refer to?

Soils are a mixture of different things; rocks, minerals, and dead, decaying plants and animals. Soil can be very different from one location to another, but generally consists of organic and inorganic materials, water and air.




Source: http://library.thinkquest.org/J003195F/soil1.htm

What sequence of events could lead magma becoming soil?

Crystallization followed by exposure and weathering.

What are the characteristics of gravel soil?

Gravel soil is well-drained due to its coarse texture, allowing water to flow easily through it. It has low fertility and organic matter content, which may require supplementation for plant growth. Gravel soil warms up quickly in the spring but can also dry out quickly in hot weather.

What statement is most likely correct regarding soil bacteria that inhabit the polar regions of Earth?

Soil bacteria in polar regions are adapted to cold temperatures and harsh conditions, allowing them to survive in these extreme environments. They play crucial roles in nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning, helping to drive processes such as decomposition and carbon cycling in these unique ecosystems.

What is the meant by loam?

Loam is a type of soil that has a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay, along with organic matter. It is known for its fertility and ability to retain moisture while still allowing for good drainage. This makes it ideal for gardening and agricultural purposes.

What is the Order of the list of soil particles from largest to smallest?

The order of soil particles from largest to smallest is gravel, sand, silt, and clay.

What happened to the grasses that once held the soil in place?

The grasses were likely removed due to human activities such as farming, deforestation, or urban development. Without the grasses to anchor the soil, erosion can occur, leading to loss of soil fertility and increased sediment runoff into waterways. Replanting grasses or other vegetation can help prevent further soil erosion.

How do fallen leaves affect the soil of the forest?

Fallen leaves in the forest decompose over time, returning nutrients to the soil. This process enriches the soil, providing essential elements for plant growth. Additionally, the organic matter from the leaves helps improve the soil structure and moisture retention.

What is The soil that is most likely to produce the best crop?

A biologically healthy soil would be very likely to produce the best crop.

How the permeability of soil and rocks the flow of groundwater?

Permeability refers to the ability of soil and rocks to allow water to flow through them. Higher permeability allows groundwater to flow more easily, while lower permeability hinders the movement of groundwater. Factors such as grain size, pore size, and connectivity influence the permeability of soil and rocks, impacting how quickly groundwater can flow through them.