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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

How does atmospheric nitrogen enter the soil?

Atmospheric nitrogen can enter the soil through a process called nitrogen fixation, where certain bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the air into a form that plants can use. This can occur naturally through biological processes or through human activities such as the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers.

Why is it necessary to use all the sand liner and clay layers shown in the figure?

The use of sand, liner, and clay layers is necessary in construction to create a barrier system that prevents contamination of groundwater and soil from waste materials. The various layers serve to contain pollutants and prevent them from infiltrating the environment. Each layer plays a specific role in ensuring proper containment and protection of the surrounding ecosystem.

WHY LOAM SOIL IS BEST?

Because water holding capacity of laom is very good.

How can a farmer protect the nitrogen content or soil?

Farmers can protect the nitrogen content in soil by practicing crop rotation, using cover crops, and reducing the amount of synthetic fertilizers applied. These practices help to maintain a healthy nitrogen balance in the soil, which is essential for plant growth and soil fertility.

When farmers leave plant stalks in the field to reduce soil erosion is called?

Conservation tillage. This practice helps to protect the soil from erosion by keeping plant residue on the field surface, which can reduce runoff and improve soil health.

What type of soil is preferred for maize?

Maize prefers well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in soils with a pH level between 5.8 and 7.0. Ample soil moisture is also important for maize growth and development.

What the soil composition and physical environment desert?

Desert soil is typically sandy, rocky, and poor in organic matter. The physical environment in deserts is characterized by low precipitation, high temperatures, and limited vegetation. These conditions can lead to water scarcity, high evaporation rates, and extreme variations in temperature between day and night.

What do you call a substance that pollutes the air or water or soil?

A substance that pollutes the air, water, or soil is called a pollutant. Pollutants can come from various sources such as industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and agricultural run-off.

What is the iron in soil that gives a planet its red color?

The iron in soil undergoes oxidation due to exposure to oxygen, forming iron oxide minerals such as hematite and magnetite. These minerals give the soil a reddish color, and when present in large quantities on a planet's surface, can give the planet a red appearance, like Mars.

Why are the lower horizons of the soil occupied by kankar?

Kankar forms in the lower horizons of soil due to the accumulation of calcium carbonate. This accumulation happens as water moves through the soil and dissolves calcium carbonate from the upper layers, depositing it in the lower horizons.

What is the most productive layer of soil?

The most productive layer of soil is known as topsoil, which is typically the uppermost layer of soil and is rich in organic matter, nutrients, and microorganisms essential for plant growth. Topsoil is crucial for agriculture and gardening because it provides a fertile environment for plant roots to thrive and absorb water and nutrients. Its composition can vary depending on factors such as location, climate, and land use practices.

Can lead to severe soil erosion especially on mountainsides?

Factors like deforestation, intense rainfall, and improper land use can contribute to severe soil erosion on mountainsides. When vegetation is stripped away, the soil becomes vulnerable to erosion from water and winds, leading to loss of fertile topsoil and destabilization of the terrain. Implementing measures such as reforestation, terracing, and soil conservation practices can help prevent and mitigate soil erosion in these areas.

The movement of a large block of soil and rock downhill in one piece when it becomes unstable is called a?

The movement of a large block of soil and rock downhill in one piece when it becomes unstable is called a landslide. It can be triggered by various factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or human activities, causing significant damage to the surrounding area. Countermeasures like slope stabilization and drainage systems can help mitigate the risks associated with landslides.

Why are trees affected by soil creep?

Soil creep can affect trees by causing the soil to move gradually downhill, which can disrupt the tree's root system and stability. As the soil beneath the tree shifts, it can create stress on the roots and hinder the tree's ability to absorb nutrients and water properly. Over time, soil creep can lead to tree leaning or uprooting.

Why is laterite soil found in the western coastal region?

Laterite soil is found in the western coastal region due to the warm and wet tropical climate, which accelerates the process of leaching and weathering of rocks. The heavy rainfall and high temperatures in the region contribute to the formation of laterite soil by promoting the breakdown of parent rocks rich in iron and aluminum.

Why are soil samples collected away from fences roads etc?

Soil samples are typically collected away from fences, roads, and other potential contaminants to ensure that the sample is representative of the area being tested. Contaminants from these sources could skew the results and give an inaccurate picture of the soil's composition and health. Sampling away from these sources helps to produce more reliable data for analysis.

What type of soil is found in kashmir?

In Kashmir, the type of soil found is predominantly red and sandy loam soil. This type of soil is fertile and well-draining, suitable for agriculture and horticulture. The region also has alluvial soil along the river banks, which is rich in nutrients.

What are the 4 components of good quality soil?

The four components of good quality soil are minerals (sand, silt, clay), organic matter (humus), air, and water. These components contribute to the soil's fertility, structure, drainage, and ability to support plant growth.

Are the Earth's eras the same length?

No, the Earth's eras are not the same length. They vary in duration. The eras are typically distinguished by significant geological and paleontological changes that have occurred during each period of time.

In soils with distinct soil horizons the bottom zones are called what?

The bottom zones in soils with distinct soil horizons are called the C horizon. This horizon typically contains weathered parent material and has limited biological activity compared to the upper horizons.

How have modern farming methods led to the loss of soil fertility?

Modern farming methods such as intensive tilling, monocropping, and excessive use of synthetic fertilizers have led to the loss of soil fertility by depleting essential nutrients, disrupting soil structure, and increasing erosion. These practices can also harm soil organisms and reduce biodiversity, further impacting soil health and fertility in the long term.

What is an ecosystem that contains rich soil?

A temperate deciduous forest ecosystem typically contains rich soil. These forests have a diverse range of plant and animal species thriving in nutrient-rich soils that support the growth of tall trees and various understory vegetation. The decomposition of organic matter in these ecosystems contributes to the fertility of the soil.

Why doesn't soil run out of nutients?

Soil replenishes nutrients through natural processes including decomposition of organic matter, nutrient cycling by microorganisms, and weathering of rocks. These processes release and recycle key nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, helping to maintain soil fertility over time. Additionally, sustainable farming practices can help prevent nutrient depletion by promoting soil health and minimizing nutrient loss.

How much soil is there in 2' by 2' by 4' hole?

To find the volume of the hole, multiply the dimensions: 2 * 2 * 4 = 16 cubic feet. The amount of soil required will be approximately 16 cubic feet if the hole is filled to the top.

What is the permanent layer of frozen soil called?

The permanent layer of frozen soil is called permafrost. It remains frozen year-round and can extend several meters below the ground's surface.