How do forest conserve water and soil?
Forests help conserve water by regulating the water cycle through processes like transpiration, which releases moisture into the atmosphere. The roots of trees also help to absorb excess water, reducing the risk of flooding. Additionally, forests protect the soil by preventing erosion, promoting nutrient cycling, and maintaining soil structure through the presence of plant roots.
What factor contribute to soil fertility?
the variety of soils and the climates in which they are found
Is wood ash and soot good for soil?
Wood ash contains nutrients that can benefit soil, such as potassium and calcium. Soot, on the other hand, can be detrimental to soil health as it can contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals. It is recommended to use wood ash in moderation and avoid adding soot to soil.
What causes a falling tree to change into soil?
When a tree falls, it begins to decompose through the action of various organisms like fungi, bacteria, and insects. These organisms break down the tree's organic matter into simpler compounds, which eventually become part of the soil. Over time, the tree's nutrients are recycled and contribute to the fertility of the soil.
What soil property is a measure if the ability of a soil to support plant growth?
Soil fertility is a measure of the ability of a soil to support plant growth, determined by its nutrient content, pH levels, and other factors that influence plant development.
What is a sandy soil's capacity to retain water?
Sandy soil has a low capacity to retain water because of its large particles and low organic matter content. Water drains quickly through sandy soil, making it challenging for plants to access sufficient moisture for their needs. Amendments such as compost can be added to improve sandy soil's water-holding capacity.
How the legume crop increase the soil fertility?
Legume crops have the ability to form a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules. These bacteria can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, leading to increased nitrogen levels in the soil. When legume plants decompose, they release nutrients back into the soil, further enhancing soil fertility.
What minerals are found in laterite soil?
Laterite soil typically contains high concentrations of iron and aluminum oxides, as well as varying amounts of other minerals such as quartz, kaolinite, and hematite. These minerals contribute to the distinctive reddish color and high levels of acidity found in laterite soils.
Do roots grow better in soil or sand?
Roots generally grow better in soil compared to sand because soil provides a more suitable environment for root development. Soil contains essential nutrients, organic matter, and better water retention capacity, all of which support healthy root growth. Sand, on the other hand, has poor water retention and nutrient availability, making it less conducive for root growth.
What is load bearing of compacted soil?
The load-bearing capacity of compacted soil depends on factors such as soil type, moisture content, compaction method, and compaction energy. Typically, compacted soil can generally support loads up to 150-300 kN/m^2, but this value can vary widely depending on site-specific conditions. It is important to perform proper soil testing and engineering analysis to determine the exact load-bearing capacity of compacted soil for a specific project.
Slit soil is typically found in wetlands, marshes, or areas with poor drainage. It is characterized by its waterlogged and oxygen-deprived conditions, which can inhibit plant growth and affect soil composition.
What is the organic material found in topsoil?
The organic material found in topsoil consists of decomposed plant and animal matter, such as leaves, roots, and organisms like worms and insects. This organic matter is important for soil structure, nutrient cycling, and supporting microbial activity.
Why is wilting point a function of soil texture explain?
Wilting point, the soil moisture threshold at which plants cannot extract water effectively, is influenced by soil texture as it affects water availability and retention in the soil. In finer-textured soils like clay, water is held more tightly, making it harder for plants to extract water. Conversely, in coarser-textured soils like sand, water drains more quickly, making it easier for plants to reach wilting point. In summary, soil texture influences the soil's ability to hold and release water, impacting the wilting point for plants.
Why wilting point function of soil texture?
The wilting point of soil is influenced by its texture because soil texture affects the pore size and distribution within the soil. Fine-textured soils have smaller pores which hold water tightly and have a lower wilting point compared to coarse-textured soils with larger pores that drain water more easily, resulting in a higher wilting point. Understanding the wilting point of different soil textures is important for determining plant water needs and irrigation scheduling.
Why are soils thin and poor in hot wet climates?
In hot wet climates, heavy rainfall and high temperatures cause rapid weathering and leaching of nutrients from the soil. This leaching process results in the depletion of essential nutrients in the soil, making it thin and poor in fertility. The high levels of moisture can also lead to soil erosion, further contributing to its poor quality.
Soil is formed from the weathering of rocks and organic material breaking down over time. Factors such as climate, topography, vegetation, and time influence the formation of soil. Microorganisms, plant roots, and earthworms play a vital role in the decomposition processes that contribute to soil formation.
How does solid rock turn into soil?
Solid rock turns into soil through a process called weathering, which involves physical (mechanical) and chemical breakdown of the rock over time. Physical weathering occurs through actions like freeze-thaw cycles and root growth, while chemical weathering involves reactions with water, oxygen, and acids that break down the rock's minerals into smaller particles. Over time, these processes create the fine particles and organic matter that make up soil.
Why it is important not to lose any soil from the excavated pit during the sand replacing method?
Losing soil from the excavated pit during the sand replacing method can affect the stability and integrity of surrounding structures. It can also lead to problems such as settlement, uneven loading, and potential collapse. Maintaining the integrity of the soil ensures proper support and prevents potential structural issues in the future.
How can soil degradation is prevented?
Soil degradation can be prevented by practicing sustainable agricultural methods such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage. Implementing soil conservation practices like terracing, contour farming, and buffer strips can also help prevent soil erosion. Proper management of water resources and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals can further contribute to preventing soil degradation.
What are example of soil conservation?
Some examples of soil conservation techniques include crop rotation, contour plowing, terracing, and cover cropping. These methods help to prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
What is soil permeability a measure of?
Soil permeability is a measure of how easily water can flow through soil. It is an important factor in determining the ability of soil to absorb and drain water, which can impact plant growth and soil erosion.
What is the climatic condition and soil required for wheat?
Wheat grows best in temperate climates with cool temperatures during the growing season and enough moisture for proper growth. The soil should be well-drained, loamy, and fertile with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Wheat also requires full sun exposure for optimal growth.
What is the process of water moving through the soil called what?
This is known as percolation or groundwater recharge.
Which is a pair of opposing of forces that act on water as it goes down through the soil?
Capillary action and gravity is a a pair of opposing forces that act on water as it goes down through the soil.