answersLogoWhite

0

🧪

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

Is type c soil the least stable soil?

No, type C soil is not the least stable soil. Type C soil is moderately cohesive and may require some engineering considerations for excavation. Type D soil is considered the least stable soil due to its lack of cohesion and tendency to flow when excavated.

What soil is white and feels gritty?

White, gritty soil is likely composed of a high percentage of sand. Sand particles are large, with a gritty texture, and the color white may indicate a low content of organic matter. This type of soil tends to have good drainage but may lack nutrients, making it less suitable for certain plants.

How would a soil that developed in a warm wet place be different then one that developed in a hot dry place?

the soils in the hot dry place are shallow and contain little organic matter, chemical weathering, and soil development is slow. In a warm, wet place heavy rains wash away and leave a thin layer of humus. soil is fast in warm wet regions its not suitable for growing crops.

What are the bacteria that lives on dead organic matter?

Bacteria that decompose dead organic matter are called decomposers or saprophytic bacteria. They break down complex organic compounds into simpler substances, which can then be recycled in the ecosystem. Examples include species of Bacillus, Clostridium, and Pseudomonas.

Why is it difficult to stop soil erosion?

Soil erosion is difficult to stop because natural processes such as wind and water constantly act on the soil. Additionally, human activities such as deforestation, agriculture, and construction can accelerate erosion. Effective solutions typically require a combination of conservation practices, land management techniques, and restoration efforts tailored to specific geographic and environmental conditions.

What types of materials make up the o horizon?

The O horizon, also known as the organic horizon, is composed of organic materials such as decomposing plant litter (leaves, twigs), animal remains, and living organisms like insects and microorganisms. It is the topmost layer of the soil profile and plays a critical role in nutrient cycling and soil fertility.

What is young soil?

Young soil is soil that has had little time to develop fully, often characterized by a lack of distinct soil horizons and a relatively high proportion of organic matter. Young soils typically have a simpler structure compared to older soils and may be more susceptible to erosion and nutrient leaching.

What is mineral soil?

Mineral soil is soil that is primarily made up of mineral particles, such as sand, silt, and clay. It is the type of soil that is most commonly found in nature and forms the foundation for plant growth by providing essential nutrients, water retention, and anchorage for roots.

How can you help control soil erosion?

You can help control soil erosion by planting cover crops and trees, utilizing mulch, practicing contour plowing, terracing on slopes, and building retention walls or check dams to slow down water flow. Additionally, reducing tillage and incorporating organic matter into the soil can also improve soil structure and reduce erosion.

Why consolidation occurs only in clay soil but not in sandy soil?

Consolidation occurs in clay soil because clay particles are smaller and have a greater surface area for water to fill up the pore spaces, causing soil particles to come closer together. In sandy soil, the larger particles have fewer contact points and larger pore spaces, allowing water to flow more easily and not causing consolidation.

How does rok turn into soil?

Rocks turn into soil through a process called weathering. Weathering can be physical, such as through the freezing and thawing of water in cracks, or chemical, such as through the reaction of rocks with acids in water. Over time, this process breaks down rocks into smaller particles that eventually become soil.

What are two causes for soil loss?

  1. Erosion caused by water or wind removes the top layer of soil, leading to soil loss.
  2. Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as over-tilling, deforestation, and poor irrigation techniques, can also contribute to soil erosion and degradation.

Why is volcanic soil good for growing plants?

Volcanic soil is rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are essential for plant growth. The soil is also well-draining and aerated, providing a favorable environment for root development. The high porosity of volcanic soil allows for good water retention while also preventing waterlogging, supporting healthy plant growth.

What is a by product of soil?

One common byproduct of soil is organic matter, which is composed of dead plant and animal material. As organic matter decomposes, it releases nutrients that can benefit plants and improve soil fertility.

What are two ways to prevent or slow down erosion?

Planting trees and other vegetation to stabilize soil with their roots and reduce runoff erosion. Implementing erosion control measures like building terraces, retaining walls, or utilizing mulch to cover bare soil and prevent water erosion.

What is the term soil that is made up of roughly equal parts of clay sand silt?

The term for soil made up of roughly equal parts of clay, sand, and silt is loam. Loam soil is known for its ideal balance of drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient content, making it highly suitable for plant growth.

How soil contain air?

Soil contains air in the spaces between the soil particles called pore spaces. These pore spaces allow for the infiltration of air into the soil, providing oxygen for root respiration and promoting beneficial soil microbial activity. Adequate soil aeration is critical for healthy plant growth and overall soil health.

Is Moon's soil fertile?

No, it is purely mineral with no organic material that would be needed by plants.

What does it mean if the soil is less than 7 in the PH scale?

If the soil has a pH of less than 7, it is considered acidic. This lower pH level can affect nutrient availability for plants and may require adjustments such as adding lime to bring the pH closer to neutral for optimal plant growth.

Why do we need to prevent soil erosion?

Soil erosion leads to loss of fertile topsoil, reduces agricultural productivity, and can contribute to sedimentation in water bodies, affecting water quality. It also increases the risk of landslides and flooding. Preventing soil erosion helps to sustain healthy ecosystems, support agriculture, and protect infrastructure.

What soil has a medium texture that is made of all minerals?

Loam soil has a medium texture and is made of a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay particles. It provides good drainage and moisture retention for plant growth.

Why is soil conservation important?

Because soil is vital to healthy plants. Soil is useless in the bottom of a lake or in storm drains.

Why does weather shape soil?

Weather influences soil formation by processes such as erosion, deposition of sediments, and weathering of rocks. Factors such as temperature, rainfall, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles all play a role in breaking down rocks and minerals into the soil. Overall, weather patterns determine the type and quality of soil that develops in a particular region.

What is the soil composition in the taiga?

The soil composition in the taiga is typically acidic and nutrient-poor due to slow decomposition of organic matter in the cold climate. It is dominated by a layer of organic material (peat) on top of mineral soil. The soil tends to be shallow and frozen for much of the year, limiting plant root development.

How long does it take for rocks to break down into soil?

The process of rocks breaking down into soil can take hundreds to thousands of years, depending on factors like the type of rock, weathering conditions, and the environment. Factors like temperature, moisture, and the presence of plant roots can all influence the rate of rock weathering and soil formation.