Soils Exam 1

Biogeochemistry

the study of chemical reactions of the atmosphere, the oceans, crustal minerals, and living organisms.

Abiotic components

includes geology, climatology, chemistry and physics.

Biotic components

includes biology.

Pedosphere

the conceptual zone within an ecosystem consisting of soil bodies or directly influenced by them.

Soil

a natural body composed of solids (minerals and organic matter), liquid, and gases that occurs on the land surface, occupies space, and is characterized by one or both of horizons/layers and the ability to support rooted plants.

Horizons

distinguishable layers of the soil from additions, losses, transfers and transformations.

Ecosystem services

the benefits people obtain from ecosystems.

Supporting services

What it helps.

Provisioning services

what it provides

Cultural services

cultural effects.

Regulation services

what it regulates.

Roles of soil

Medium for plant growth, water movement, recycles waste, modifies atmospheric composition, provides habitat and construction materials.

Medium for plant growth

Rooting, ventilation, temperature and nutrients.

Controls water movement through the hydraulic cycle

Water storage, filtration, and controlled by soil permeability

Recycles waste

Decomposition and contaminant degradation.

Modifies atmospheric composition

Absorbs oxygen, releases carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, and evaporates water.

Construction materials

Clay-rich foundation design, excavations.