Weathering and Soil Formation

These flashcards highlight key concepts from the lecture on weathering and soil formation, providing essential vocabulary definitions to aid in studying.

Soil

An interface where parts of Earth's systems interact, creating a vital resource for life.

Weathering

The process of breaking down pre-existing material into loose debris, necessary for soil formation.

Zone of Leaching

The upper zone in soil where water removes fine-grained particles and minerals, making it porous.

Topsoil

The uppermost layer of soil, rich in organic material and nutrients, important for plant growth.

Humus

Organic debris produced by microbes, plants, and animals, vital for healthy soil.

Soil Horizons

Layers of soil that differ in physical and chemical properties, including O, A, E, B, and C horizons.

A Horizon

The layer of soil below the O horizon, containing humus and mixed mineral matter.

E Horizon

A soil layer subjected to leaching, often lighter in color due to the absence of organic material.

B Horizon

The subsoil where material from above accumulates, often containing clay and minerals.

C Horizon

The layer of weathered material that has not undergone leaching, acting as an intermediary to bedrock.

Soil Fertility

The ability of soil to support plant growth due to nutrient composition and structure.

Mollisol

A fertile soil found typically in prairies or grasslands, rich in organic material.

Gelisols

Young, thin soils typical of polar regions, characterized by permafrost.

Calcrete

A thick layer of calcite that can form in desert soils due to low moisture.

Dust Bowl

A man-made ecological disaster during the 1930s caused by poor soil management and drought.

Soil Degradation

The deterioration of soil quality due to human activities, leading to loss of nutrients and productivity.

Microbial Action

The interaction of microbes with soil leading to organic matter breakdown and nutrient cycling.

Biological Weathering

The process by which living organisms contribute to the breaking down of rocks and minerals.