Soil Structure Quiz

Roughly spherical soil aggregates, 1 to 10 mm in diameter, common in horizon A.

Flat peds lying horizontally, commonly found in horizons A, B, and C due to compaction.

Roughly cube-shaped soil aggregates, 5 to 50 mm across, typically found in horizon B.

Larger, vertically elongated blocks, usually 10 to 100 mm across.

Similar to prismatic soil but with distinct rounded tops, often vertically aligned.

Compact, coherent soil with no peds, usually found in clay soils.

Loose grain soil where each grain acts independently, typical in very sandy soils.

Ease of crushing a ped by fingers, depending on moisture content.

The visual appearance of soil, often indicating nutrient levels and organic matter.

Decomposed organic matter that enriches soil nutrient content.

Soils that commonly indicate poor drainage and less fertility.

The proportion of sand, silt, and clay in soil that affects water retention and air flow.

The particle size of sand which ranges from 0.05 mm to 2 mm in diameter.

The smallest soil particles measuring less than 0.002 mm in diameter.

The arrangement of soil particles into clumps known as peds, forming a pattern.

Spaces between soil peds that allow for air and water movement.

Soil forms as rocks weather into smaller fragments and minerals.

Plants grow in weathered rocks, aiding in soil formation.

Worms, insects, bacteria, and fungi contribute organic matter to soil.

Decay of dead plants and animals forms dark humus in soil.

It takes at least 500 years to produce one inch of topsoil.

Earthworms enrich topsoil by producing waste and creating tunnels.

Soil provides water, oxygen, and nutrients essential for plant health.

Soil serves as the foundation for buildings and roads.

Soil absorbs rainwater, reduces flash floods and droughts, and filters water.

Soil serves as a home for various organisms like worms, bacteria, and plants.

The decrease of soil fertility due to human activities and natural factors.

The process of enhancing soil aspects to support plant growth, like structure and drainage.

Decomposed plant and animal material that improves soil fertility and structure.

The ability of soil to retain essential nutrients for plants.

Professionals who work with plants and advise on soil improvement.

Natural or synthetic substances containing essential elements for plant growth.

Using fertilizers inappropriately can harm plants and the environment.

Microorganisms in a compost pile decompose organic matter into useful forms.

Soil pH affects nutrient solubility and availability for plant growth.

Essential nutrients are most available in a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8.

Iron is more available at lower pH values, unlike most nutrients.

Ground limestone raises pH, while sulfur lowers it based on soil tests.

Imbalances of nutrients can lead to toxicity or deficiency affecting plant health.

Proper soil management ensures plants have the needed nutrients and resources.

The mixture of organic matter, inorganic matter, air, water, and soil organisms.

The vertical sections in soil, usually five: O, A, B, C, and R.

The top layer of soil rich in decomposed organic matter.

The layer below horizon O, known as topsoil, rich in organic matter.

The layer below horizon A, containing some elements from it.

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals to form soil.

Soil's ability to hold water, varying with texture (e.g., sandy vs clay).