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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

Which northeastern state is landlocked and lacks good farming soil?

Vermont is a northeastern state that is completely landlocked and has rocky soil that is not well-suited for farming.

Characteristics of soil profiles may be closely related to what factor?

The characteristics of soil profiles are closely related to the climate and weather conditions of a region. Factors such as temperature, precipitation, organic matter input, and vegetation cover can all impact the formation and composition of soil profiles over time.

What kind of soil is made from 40 percent sand40 percent silt and 20 percent clay?

The soil described would be classified as a loam soil. Loam soils are a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, with a balanced composition that provides good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient availability for plants. They are considered ideal for gardening and agriculture.

How can gravity move large amounts of rock and soil?

Gravity can move large amounts of rock and soil through processes like erosion, mass wasting, and landslides. When the force of gravity pulls on loose materials on a slope, it can cause them to slide or flow downhill, carrying rocks and soil with them. Over time, these movements can reshape landscapes and create features like valleys, canyons, and deltas.

How does soil erosion affect human societies?

Soil erosion can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, which can result in food insecurity and economic hardship for communities that rely on farming. It can also contribute to sedimentation of water bodies, causing water pollution and reduced water quality for drinking and irrigation. In extreme cases, soil erosion can even lead to land degradation and desertification, making areas uninhabitable for human populations.

What conditions are typcial of the soil the deeper we dig into it?

As we dig deeper into the soil, typical conditions include increased compaction, decreased organic matter content, reduced oxygen availability, higher clay content, and lower microbial activity. Additionally, soil pH may vary with depth, and nutrient availability can also change.

Why is the temperature of soil higher than the water when heated by the sun?

Soil has a lower specific heat capacity compared to water, which means it heats up faster and to higher temperatures when exposed to the sun. Additionally, soil is less effective at reflecting sunlight compared to water, which also contributes to the soil heating up more quickly.

What are the advantages of laterite soil?

Laterite soil has good drainage properties, making it suitable for agriculture in areas with heavy rainfall. It is rich in iron and aluminum oxides, which can help crops grow well in acidic conditions. Additionally, laterite soil is porous, allowing roots to penetrate easily and access nutrients.

What happen to 5 mongo seeds in a loam soil without sunlight day 3?

The Mongo Will not grow Faster even their have a water...

Why is it important minerals are released back in the soil?

Minerals are essential for plant growth and development. When minerals are released back into the soil through decomposition of organic matter or other processes, they become available for plants to take up and use. This helps maintain soil fertility and nutrient cycling, supporting healthy plant growth and overall ecosystem functioning.

How does climate affect soil?

soil characteristics develop as a result of their oriqin and development soils beqins as a particular rock material and develops slowly over many years, each soil is a product of a combination of: parent material, climate. livinq orqanisms, topoqraphy and time.

Is this true or false increased use of farm land has led to more rapid soil erosion?

True. Increased use of farm land, especially through practices such as intensive tilling and monoculture cropping, can lead to more rapid soil erosion. This can result in loss of topsoil, reduced soil fertility, and increased water pollution. Implementing soil conservation practices like cover cropping and contour plowing can help mitigate soil erosion.

What does soil erosion eventually do to the landscape?

Soil erosion can disrupt the natural landscape by removing the topsoil, which is rich in nutrients necessary for plant growth. This can lead to decreased agricultural productivity, loss of biodiversity, and increased risk of landslides and flooding in the affected area. Additionally, soil erosion can cause sediment pollution in water bodies, harming aquatic ecosystems.

What are the importance of sand in soil?

Sand in soil helps to improve drainage and aeration, preventing waterlogged conditions that can harm plant roots. It also increases soil porosity, allowing for better root development and nutrient uptake. Additionally, sand helps to loosen heavy clay soils, making them easier to work with and improving overall soil structure.

What bacteria can live in soil or water?

Some common bacteria that can live in soil or water include Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis. These bacteria have adapted to thrive in diverse environments and play important roles in nutrient cycling and decomposition.

What might cause mountaintops to have little or no topsoil?

Mountaintops may have little to no topsoil due to factors such as steep slopes leading to erosion, freezing temperatures inhibiting soil formation, frequent strong winds blowing soil away, and rocky surfaces limiting soil development. These conditions make it difficult for topsoil to accumulate and sustain plant growth at higher elevations.

How do climate and landforms affect the soils characteristics?

The soil that forms in a hot, wet climate is very different from the soil that develops in a cold, dry climate. Climate influences the characteristics of developing soil because the climate influences the weathering of the rock. The four soil types that develop in different climate regions are: tropical, desert, temperate, and arctic.

Why are soil samples collected away from fences and roads?

Soil samples are collected away from fences and roads to avoid contamination from chemicals, debris, and other pollutants that may be present near these areas. By collecting samples in more undisturbed locations, it allows for a more accurate assessment of the natural soil properties.

Why is dry soil better than wet soil?

Dry soil is better than wet soil for planting because wet soil can lead to root rot and suffocation of plant roots. Dry soil allows for better aeration, root growth, and nutrient uptake by plants. Overly wet soil can also promote the growth of fungal diseases and attract pests.

How is regolith different than soil?

Regolith refers to the loose, fragmented material that covers solid rock on planets and other celestial bodies, while soil is a mix of organic matter, minerals, gases, liquids, and organisms that support plant life on Earth. Regolith does not support plant growth like soil does and has fewer nutrients.

What is the alluvium?

Alluvium refers to loose sediment and soil that is deposited by flowing water, such as rivers and streams. It is typically composed of a mixture of rock fragments, clay, silt, sand, and gravel. Alluvium can accumulate in riverbeds, floodplains, and deltas.

How does weathering help form soil?

Weathering breaks down rocks and minerals into smaller particles, which then mix with organic matter to form soil. This process can be physical (mechanical) or chemical in nature and occurs over thousands of years, contributing to the formation of fertile soil for plant growth.

What factors influence soil moisture?

Factors that influence soil moisture include precipitation, temperature, evaporation rates, soil composition, and topography. Other factors such as vegetation cover, drainage patterns, and human activities can also impact soil moisture levels. Ultimately, the balance between water inputs and outputs in the soil determines its moisture content.

Which soil layer is least similar to underlying rock?

The topsoil layer is typically least similar to the underlying rock, as it is a combination of organic matter, minerals, and microorganisms that have been weathered and broken down over time. This layer tends to have a different composition and structure compared to the solid rock beneath it.