Geology and Soil Formation Quiz

Study Notes

A raised bog is a self-sustaining ecosystem with peat accumulation, whereas a blanket bog is a peat-covered landscape with no obvious boundaries.
Two main factors involved in the formation of metamorphic rocks: high pressure and high temperature.

Two examples of metamorphic rocks:
- Marble (develops from limestone)
- Slate (develops from shale)

Parent material influences soil type through its chemical and physical properties, which affect the soil's fertility and structure.
Limestone and granite have different effects on soil formation: limestone produces alkaline soils, while granite produces acidic soils.
To identify limestone as a parent material, look for:
- High calcium carbonate content
- Presence of fossilized shells or coral
Formation of peat bogs in Ireland: cool, wet climate with limited oxygen, resulting in slow decomposition of plant matter.

Classification of rock types:
- Quartzite: metamorphic rock
- Shale: sedimentary rock
- Basalt: igneous rock

Weathering of rocks contributes to soil formation through physical and chemical breakdown of rocks into smaller particles.
Most soils in Ireland are regarded as young due to the country's glacial history, which stripped away old soils and left behind fresh rocks for weathering.

The Burren, Clare is characterized by the presence of limestone, a type of sedimentary rock.
A chemical process that aids in the weathering of limestone is carbonation, where CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid, which dissolves the limestone.
One feature of soil formed from limestone is its high pH level.

Three differences between soils developed under coniferous forest and grassland:
- Coniferous forest soils tend to be more acidic and have a thicker humus layer
- Grassland soils tend to be more alkaline and have a thinner humus layer
- Coniferous forest soils may have a higher concentration of nutrients
Three factors that influence soil formation:
- Parent Material: affects soil chemistry and structure
- Topography: affects soil drainage, erosion, and deposition
- Living Organisms: affect soil fertility, structure, and nutrient cycling