SOIL SCIENCE
SOIL SCIENCE
1. Soil Formation
Parent Material
The original rock or organic material from which soil develops, influencing soil texture and mineral content.
Weathering Processes
Physical, chemical, and biological breakdown of parent material into smaller particles that form soil.
Soil Horizons
Layers of soil formed over time (O, A, B, C horizons), each with distinct characteristics and composition.
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2. Soil Properties
Soil Texture
The proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles in soil, affecting water retention and nutrient availability.
Soil Structure
The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates or clumps, influencing aeration and root penetration.
Soil pH
Measure of soil acidity or alkalinity, affecting nutrient availability and microbial activity.
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3. Soil Fertility and Nutrients
Macronutrients
Essential elements required in large amounts by plants (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium).
Micronutrients
Elements needed in trace amounts, like iron, manganese, zinc, crucial for plant growth.
Soil Organic Matter
Decomposed plant and animal residues that improve nutrient supply, water retention, and soil structure.
1. SOIL FORMATION
SOIL SCIENCE
1. Soil Formation
Parent Material
The original rock or organic material from which soil develops, influencing soil texture and mineral content.
Weathering Processes
Physical, chemical, and biological breakdown of parent material into smaller particles that form soil.
Soil Horizons
Layers of soil formed over time (O, A, B, C horizons), each with distinct characteristics and composition.
---
2. Soil Properties
Soil Texture
The proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles in soil, affecting water retention and nutrient availability.
Soil Structure
The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates or clumps, influencing aeration and root penetration.
Soil pH
Measure of soil acidity or alkalinity, affecting nutrient availability and microbial activity.
---
3. Soil Fertility and Nutrients
Macronutrients
Essential elements required in large amounts by plants (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium).
Micronutrients
Elements needed in trace amounts, like iron, manganese, zinc, crucial for plant growth.
Soil Organic Matter
Decomposed plant and animal residues that improve nutrient supply, water retention, and soil structure