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Soil
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Soil | A mixture composed of weathered rocks and decomposed organic material from dead plants, animals, and bacteria |
| Humus | Soil component that is dark in color and is made up of decomposed organic material. Forms from the breakdown of organic remains |
| Soil Profile | A cross-section sample of soil from the bedrock up to the surface. Typically has four main layers, or horizons, in it. (O, A, B, C) |
| A Horizon | Called Topsoil. |
| B Horizon | Called Subsoil |
| C Horizon | Called Parent Material. Rockier than A and B Horizon (topsoil and subsoil) |
| Permeability | A measure of the ability for air and water to pass through soil. Soil's ability to transmit water |
| Loam | Best type of soil for agriculture. Contains a mixture of sand, silt, and clay |
| Sand | Soil component that has a very large grain size, a gritty texture, and does not hold water well |
| Clay | Soil component that has a small grain size, a sticky texture, and can hold water better than any other component |