Soil: The Skin of the Earth

Soil is a vital natural body composed of minerals, organic matter, gases, liquids, and organisms. It forms the Earth's surface and supports life by providing nutrients and moisture to plants. There are three main soil types: sand, silt, and clay, each with distinct particle sizes. Soil interacts with the atmosphere by absorbing and emitting gases, and it plays a crucial role in water absorption, storage, and purification. It serves as a habitat for various organisms and is essential for construction. Soil's functions include supporting plant growth, modifying the atmosphere, and filtering water.

What are the three main types of soil?

• Sand, silt, and clay

• Gravel, sand, and loam

• Loam, silt, and peat

• Peat, chalk, and clay

How does soil contribute to plant growth?

• By holding roots and supplying nutrients

• By providing sunlight

• By producing oxygen

• By absorbing carbon dioxide

In what way does soil interact with the atmosphere?

• It neither absorbs nor emits gases

• It only emits gases

• It only absorbs gases

• It emits and absorbs gases like carbon dioxide and methane

What is one of the key functions of soil in relation to water?

• It only stores water

• It purifies water through physical, chemical, and biological means

• It evaporates water quickly

• It prevents water absorption

Besides being a habitat for plants, what other role does soil play?

• It is a source of renewable energy

• It is a habitat for aquatic animals

• It serves as a medium for construction

• It is used for air purification