Soil Formation and Sediment Processes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to soil formation and sediment processes, including definitions and explanations of terms essential for understanding the topic.

Sediment Rock

A rock formed from the accumulation of sediment, often containing organic materials.

Organic Matter

Decomposed living material that contributes to soil formation.

Bedrock

The solid rock layer that lies beneath soil and sediment.

Soil Formation Factors

Elements that affect how soil is created, including organic matter, climate, parent materials, topography, and time.

Eluviation

The process of leaching materials from the soil, typically in upper soil horizons.

Topographic Variables

Factors such as slope angle and aspect that influence soil formation.

Erosion

The process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by natural processes.

Alluvial Fans

Geological formations created by the deposition of sediment carried by flowing water.

Loess

A type of wind-blown sediment that can form fertile soil.

Organic Deposits

Layered accumulations of organic material, often found in wetlands like marshes and swamps.