Soil Formation Flashcards

The loose covering of broken rock particles and decaying organic matter (humus).

The soil-forming process begins when weathering breaks solid bedrock into smaller and smaller pieces.

Material from which a soil is formed.

<p>The distinct layers within a soil profile.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A horizon that is dominated by organic material containing fresh and decaying plant matter.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Organic matter and minerals where most plant root activity occurs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Soluble minerals that have been leached from the top soil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Partially weathered parent material.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Chemicals in upper layers of soil are dissolved and carried to lower layers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The percentages of sand, silt, and clay in a sample of soil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The amount and size of spaces between soil or rock particles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The rate of water and air movement through soil or bedrock.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Climate can determine the acidity, alkalinity, and general rate of soil processes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Steep slopes can lead to soil erosion and drainage issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Fertile soils require adequate plant material and organisms for nutrient breakdown.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The largest particle size (0.05 mm - 2 mm) that makes soil softer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Middle particle size (0.002 mm - 0.05 mm) that holds more water than sand.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The smallest particle size (less than 0.002 mm) that makes soil resistant to water penetration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Rich plant material in the soil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Humus creates spaces for air and water and contains essential nutrients for plants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The solid layer of rock beneath the soil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Rock particles (weathered bedrock), minerals, decayed organic material (humus), water, and air.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A measure of how well the soil supports plant growth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Organisms like fungi, bacteria, worms, and mites that decompose dead organic material.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>15% silt, 15% sand, 70% clay</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>40% silt, 40% sand, 20% clay</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>20% silt, 65% sand, 15% clay</p> Signup and view all the answers