Soil Formation and Erosion

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and processes related to soil formation and erosion, aiding in the understanding of soil science.

Soil

The weathered portion of the Earth's crust that can sustain life and serve as a medium for plant growth.

Soil Horizons

Horizontal layers in soil distinguished by physical features such as texture and color.

O horizon

The organic layer on the soil surface composed of decomposing organic matter.

A horizon

Also called topsoil, rich in humus and nutrients essential for plant growth.

E horizon

A heavily leached soil area where iron and organic acids are removed to the B horizon.

B horizon

Subsoil that contains leached materials from the A and E horizons, rich in nutrients.

C horizon

Composed of weathered rock and sits on top of the parent material; least weathered horizon.

Weathering

The process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller particles through physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Erosion

The process of moving particles after they are broken down by weathering through agents like water and wind.

Chemical Weathering

The decomposition of rock material through chemical reactions, often involving water and gases.

Leaching

The process by which minerals or matter dissolved in water move downward, making nutrients unavailable to plants.

Anthropogenic Soil Degradation

Degradation caused by human activities, such as farming, that reduces soil quality and fertility.

Organic Matter

Decomposed plant and animal material that enriches soil with nutrients.

Parent Material

The underlying bedrock from which soil develops, influencing soil composition.

Biological Weathering

The breakdown of rocks and minerals by living organisms, such as plant roots.

Lichens

Symbiotic organisms made of fungi and algae that can weather rocks chemically through acid production.

Dust Bowl

A severe drought in the 1930s that led to massive soil erosion in the United States.

Tillage

The agricultural preparation of soil by mechanical agitation, which can lead to soil erosion.

Soil Conservation

Methods practiced to protect soil from erosion and degradation.

Transported Soil

Soil formed from parent material that has been moved from its original location by erosion.

Residual Soil

Soil that develops from the weathering of the underlying bedrock.

Soil Biodiversity

The variety of life forms present in the soil, contributing to its health and function.

Hydrolysis

A chemical reaction in which water is used to break down minerals, resulting in the formation of new substances.