fundamentals of soil science exam 1

What is the definition of soil?

Soil is the natural medium composed of mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air, supporting plant life.

What are the functions of soil?

Soil functions include being a plant growth medium, habitat for organisms, water filtration and storage, engineering foundation, and nutrient cycling.

What can be learned from studying soil?

Studying soil can reveal soil fertility, climate history, pollution levels, and land use changes.

What are some ecosystem services provided by soil?

Ecosystem services include providing nutrients and anchorage for plants, retaining and purifying water, and recycling nutrients through decomposition.

What are the root characteristics of soil?

Roots anchor plants and absorb nutrients.

What are the essential roles of water movement in soil?

Water moves through soil via capillary action.

What are the primary soil nutrients classified as macronutrients?

Macronutrients include Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Sulfur (S).

What are the five soil forming factors?

The five soil forming factors are Parent Material, Climate, Organisms, Topography, and Time.

What types of rock are formed from cooled magma?

Igneous rocks are formed from cooled magma, such as granite and basalt.

What are the characteristics of the O-Horizon in soil profiles?

The O-Horizon is composed of organic matter.

What is the most important property of soil?

Soil texture affects water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability.

What is the range of particle sizes for sand?

Sand particle sizes range from 0.05 to 2.0 mm.

What is thixotropy in soil?

Thixotropy refers to soil liquefaction under stress.

What indicates well-drained soil based on color?

Red/yellow colors indicate oxidized iron and well-drained soil.

What type of soil structure is described as loose and granular?

Crumb structure is loose and granular, good for plant growth.

What measurement method can be used to assess soil texture in the lab?

The hydrometer method assesses soil texture by measuring differential settling rates.

What kind of parent material is formed in place from bedrock?

Residual parent material is formed in place from bedrock.