Soil Physical Features and Characteristics

Study Notes

Physical Features of Soil

Particle size is a key physical feature of soil
Soil texture is another important physical feature, influenced by particle size and distribution
Drainage is the ability of soil to allow water to flow through it
Temperature affects soil's physical and biological properties
Soil structure refers to the arrangement of particles and voids in the soil

Impacts on Soil

Compaction reduces soil's total pore space and affects its physical and biological properties
Loss of organic matter can alter soil's structure, texture, and fertility
Erosion is the removal of topsoil, reducing soil's fertility and affecting its physical features
Sedimentation is the deposition of eroded soil particles, affecting soil's texture and structure
Weathering is the breakdown of soil particles, changing their size and distribution

Investigating Soil Properties

Sedimentation can be used to investigate soil texture by separating particles by size
Soil sieves can be used to separate particles by size, aiding in texture analysis
Hand testing involves feeling the soil to determine its texture and moisture content
Capillarity and infiltration rates can be compared between compacted and uncompacted soils to determine their water-holding capacities
The percentage of water content in a soil sample can be calculated to determine its moisture level

Description

Explore the physical properties of soil, including particle size, texture, and drainage. Investigate the impact of compaction, organic matter loss, and erosion on soil structure. Determine pore space, capillarity, and infiltration rates of compacted and uncompacted soils.