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4 Earth's Surface
Properties of Soil TEK 4.7A
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Clay | Soil that is comprised of very fine mineral particles and not much organic material. |
Humus | Dark, organic material that forms in soil when plant and animal matter decays. |
Loam | Rich, crumbly soil with nearly equal parts of sand and silt, and somewhat less clay. It holds water well and is perfect for growing plants. |
Silt | A solid, dust-like sediment made up of rock and mineral particles that are larger than clay but smaller than sand. |
Topsoil | The upper, outermost layer of soil, usually the top 5–10 inches |
Components of Soil | Rocks, air, water, and dead matter. |
Decompose | The process by which dead organic substances are broken down |
Gravel | Rounded rock fragments coarser than sand. |
Nutrient | A substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life. |
Particle | A tiny or very small bit. |
Properties of Soil | How we describe soil: color, texture*, ability to retain water*, supports growth, particle size |
Retain | Absorb and continue to hold. |
Texture | The feel, appearance, or consistency of a surface or substance. |