Soil Biology and Chemistry Quiz

Is cation exchange capacity the measure of the amount of hydrogen ions in a solution?

Is humification the process by which soil organic matter is changed into humus?

Do plants remove carbon for photosynthesis but do not return it through respiration?

Is a soil pH of 8-14 considered acidic?

Do macro-organisms such as earthworms and bacteria convert soil organic matter into humus?

Is nutrient recycling caused by Nitrogen Fixation, which turns nitrogen gas into nitrates?

Is the total amount of living material in a habitat referred to as soil Biomass?

Do plants such as clover have tiny nodules in their roots where live bacteria called nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert nitrogen gas into nitrates?

Is the activity of living organisms in the soil affected by soil pH?

Is a soil pH of 7 considered neutral?

Chemical Properties of Soil

Cation exchange capacity refers to the ability of soil to exchange cations, like calcium and hydrogen, influencing nutrient availability.
Soil components, such as clay and humus, have the highest cation exchange capacity.
Soil pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions, affecting crop growth and soil organism activity.
pH scale:
- 0-6 is acidic
- 7 is neutral
- 8-14 is alkaline.

Biological Properties of Soil Organisms

Soil biomass encompasses all living organisms in the soil, including plants, animals, and microorganisms such as worms and bacteria.
When these organisms die, they contribute to organic matter in the soil.
Humification is the transformation of soil organic matter into humus, a beneficial component of fertile soil.
Macro-organisms, including earthworms, and fungi, play crucial roles in converting organic matter into humus.

Role of Organisms in the Carbon Cycle

Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and release it back into the atmosphere through respiration.
Livestock acquire carbon by consuming plants and also release it via respiration.
Nitrogen fixation is the process that converts nitrogen gas into usable nitrates, crucial for plant growth.
Certain plants, such as clover, have root nodules containing nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which facilitate the conversion of nitrogen gas into nitrates.

Test your knowledge of the biological and chemical properties of soil with this quiz. Explore concepts such as cation exchange capacity and pH levels, and discover how these factors influence soil characteristics. Whether you're a student or a soil enthusiast, this quiz will help reinforce your understanding of these essential soil properties.