5.1_soil_systems

What is the rhizosphere?

The rhizosphere is the narrow region of soil directly associated with plant roots and the accompanying microbiological ecosystem.

What are the main components of soil system storages?

Soil system storages include organic matter, organisms, nutrients, minerals, air, and water.

How does soil quality influence an area?

The quality of soil influences the primary productivity of an area.

What are the primary factors affecting soil characteristics?

Climate, organisms, relief, parent material, and time are the primary factors affecting soil characteristics.

What is the significance of species-rich soil ecosystems?

Species-rich soil ecosystems with many interactions are more stable than soils with degraded ecosystems.

What are the layers of soil in a soil profile?

The layers of soil in a soil profile include O (Organic), A (Topsoil), B (Subsoil), and C (Parent Material).

How do sand, clay, and loam soils differ in water-holding capacity?

Sand soils have low water-holding capacity, clay soils have high water-holding capacity, and loam soils have intermediate water-holding capacity.

Why is soil considered non-renewable natural capital?

Soil is considered non-renewable natural capital because its development is a long and slow process.

What is the relationship between soil texture and primary productivity?

Soil texture affects drainage, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability, which in turn influences primary productivity.

What affects the composition of soils?

Soils vary in their content of clay, silt, sand, and gravel, which affects their texture and properties.