APES Unit 4.1-4.3

Front

What are the proportions of sand, silt, and clay in soil composition?

Back

Soil composition typically includes sand, silt, and clay in varying proportions. For example, a soil may have 5% Sand, 95% Silt, and 5% Clay.

Front

What is the term for the rate at which water flows through soil?

Back

The rate at which water flows through soil is called Permeability.

Front

How does soil compaction affect water drainage?

Back

Compacting soil can impede water drainage by causing waterlogging, preventing soil development, and drying at deeper layers.

Front

Why might very old soil be nutrient poor?

Back

Very old soil may be nutrient poor due to plants and water leaching nutrients over time.

Front

What is the C horizon in soil layers?

Back

The C horizon is the layer of soil that is partially/slightly weathered and similar to the parent material.

Front

Define soil percolation.

Back

Soil percolation is the process by which water moves through the soil layers, influenced by soil texture and structure.

Front

What is the difference between porosity and permeability?

Back

Porosity refers to the amount of empty space in soil, while permeability is the ability of soil to transmit water.

Front

What role do soil organisms play in soil health?

Back

Soil organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, help decompose organic matter, recycle nutrients, and improve soil structure.

Front

What is the O horizon in soil layers?

Back

The O horizon is the top layer of soil, rich in organic material, such as decomposed leaves and other plant matter.

Front

Explain the impact of leaching on soil nutrients.

Back

Leaching is the process where water-soluble substances are washed out from the soil, leading to nutrient depletion.