Soil Formation and Weathering Concepts

1. What is soil made from?

• Only rocks

• Broken-down rocks and dead plants and animals

• Just sand

• Water and air

What is the top layer of soil called?

• Bedrock

• Subsoil

• Topsoil

• Hardpan

Why is topsoil important?

• It holds up buildings

• It contains nutrients for plants

• It keeps the Earth warm

• It makes the sky blue

What is one way humans can help keep soil healthy?

• Throw trash on the ground

• Plant trees and other plants

• Remove all plants

• Cover it with concrete

What role do plant roots play in soil health?

• They make the soil dry

• They hold the soil in place and prevent erosion

• They turn into rocks

• They make the soil disappear

2. What is the process called when rocks break down into soil?

• Melting

• Freezing

• Weathering

• Erosion

3. Which of these can cause rocks to break down?

• Rain

• Wind

• Ice

• All of the above

What do plants and animals add to the soil when they die?

• Rocks

• Water

• Nutrients

• Sand

Which living organisms help break down dead plants and animals in the soil?

• Worms and bacteria

• Birds and fish

• Trees and flowers

• Cats and dogs

Why is soil important for humans?

• It makes the sky colorful

• It helps us fly

• It supports plant growth, which provides food

• It turns into gold