General Soil Formation

What is the impact of Boulder Clay on soil texture?

It has a loamy texture that provides good drainage in winter and water storage in summer.

How does Sandstone affect soil during winter?

Its sandy texture leads to leaching due to large pore spaces.

What mineral does Granite release into the soil?

Granite weathers to release Feldspar, which turns into clay through hydrolysis.

What condition does clay in soil lead to?

Clay holds onto water, which can cause waterlogging and create anaerobic conditions.

What is the effect of Quartz on soil pH?

Quartz contributes to an acidic pH, which inhibits microorganism function and humus creation.

What is the significance of Calcium in Limestone for soil?

Calcium creates an alkaline pH, which can prevent microorganisms from functioning effectively.

What pH level does Boulder Clay provide for microorganisms?

Boulder Clay provides a neutral pH, suitable for microorganisms to decompose plant litter into humus.

What color does Iron give to soil and why?

Iron gives soil a red color due to oxidation when it mixes with oxygen.

What color indicates the presence of Quartz in soil?

Ash grey color indicates that podzolization has occurred, leaving only quartz in the soil.

How does organic matter impact soil fertility?

Organic matter, such as plant litter, is decomposed by microorganisms to create humus, enhancing soil fertility.

What type of trees contribute to high humus creation?

Deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in autumn, contribute to significant humus creation.

Why do coniferous trees inhibit humus creation?

Coniferous trees produce acidic pine needles that prevent microorganisms from functioning effectively.

What factors determine water content in soil?

Water content depends on soil texture, humus content, and climate.

What is leaching in soil?

Leaching is the process where water dissolves minerals and nutrients, washing them down to lower soil layers.

What can extreme leaching lead to?

Extreme leaching can lead to podzolization, creating hardpans and ash grey soil.

What happens to soil during waterlogging?

Waterlogging creates anaerobic conditions, preventing microorganisms from breaking down plant litter into humus.

How does air temperature affect microorganisms in soil?

Hot temperatures are ideal for microorganisms to function, while cold temperatures inhibit their activity.

What is podzolization?

Podzolization is a process that leads to the leaching of minerals, resulting in a hardpan and ash grey soil.