Understanding Soils

What are the main components of soil?

• A) Sand, silt, clay, water, and gas

• B) Sand, rocks, minerals, and air

• C) Water, minerals, plants, and animals

• D) Rocks, minerals, air, and water

Explain the role of soil in supporting plant life.

The top "O" horizon is largely ______, or organic matter, that forms from the decomposition of dead plants.

• Sand

• Humus

• Clay

• Silt

What is the main characteristic of Horizon "A"?

• It is the bedrock

• It is where most roots are found

• It is composed of weathered rock fragments

• It is the parent material.

Describe the process by which soil layers, or horizons, are formed.

Horizon "B" is often called ______.

• Topsoil

• Subsoil

• Bedrock

• Parent material

What is the significance of Horizon "C" in soil formation?

Which horizon is known as the bedrock?

• Horizon O

• Horizon A

• Horizon B

• Horizon D

How do plants obtain water and minerals from the soil?

Horizon "C" is the parent material or ______ rock fragments.

• Weathered

• Solid

• New

• Old