Soil Texture and Components

What are the major environmental factors that control soil formation?

Climate, Water availability, Topography

What is the role of the hydrosphere in soil formation?

Hydrosphere provides water for weathering and transport of soil materials

How does the hydrologic cycle impact soil processes?

It regulates the availability of water for plant growth in soils

What is the significance of soil profiles in understanding soil development?

Soil profiles provide information on texture, structure, and hardness differences in horizons Signup and view all the answers

How does the percentage of clay, silt, sand, and gravel particles define soil texture?

The composition of clay, silt, sand, and gravel determines specific soil textures Signup and view all the answers

Which type of soil structure refers to robust aggregates known as 'Peds'?

'Peds' structure Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of CO2 in the atmospheric air within soil?

0.03% Signup and view all the answers

What leads to anaerobic conditions in soil?

Lower oxygen levels and higher carbon dioxide levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between 'Soil Water' and 'Groundwater'?

'Soil Water' is water lost from a soil sample held at 105oC, while 'Groundwater' exists below the water table Signup and view all the answers

What is the major source of sulfur and phosphorus in soil organic matter?

Partially decayed plant and animal remains Signup and view all the answers

What determines the fertility of the soil according to the text?

Humus Signup and view all the answers

What forms the inorganic fraction of the soil?

Chemical and physical weathering Signup and view all the answers

What role does water play in chemical weathering of rocks?

Solvent, transport medium, and catalyst Signup and view all the answers

Which type of weathering changes the chemical composition of rocks without breaking them apart?

Chemical weathering Signup and view all the answers

What are some important chemical reactions involved in chemical weathering?

Oxidation, hydrolysis, acid hydrolysis Signup and view all the answers

In which type of weathering does biological activity such as plant roots contribute to breaking down rocks?

Biological weathering Signup and view all the answers

Which component of soil is not of living origin and influences soil behavior?

Inorganic matter (minerals) Signup and view all the answers