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Soil
Soil Vocab
| Definition | |
|---|---|
| A Horizon | The top layer of soil, also known as topsoil, rich in organic material and nutrients that support plant growth |
| B Horizon | The layer of soil beneath the A-horizon, often referred to as subsoil, containing minerals leached from the upper layers and less organic matter |
| C Horizon | The layer of soil composed of weathered rock and minerals that have not yet undergone significant soil formation processes. |
| O Horizon | The uppermost layer of soil, primarily made up of organic matter such as decomposed leaves and other plant material. |
| R Horizon | The bedrock layer beneath the soil, consisting of solid rock that has not been weathered into soil. |
| Glacial Till | Unsorted soil and rock debris deposited by glaciers, containing a mixture of particle sizes and types. |
| Humus | A dark, organic material in soil formed from the decomposition of plant and animal matter, essential for soil fertility. |
| Organic Soil | Soil that is rich in organic matter, particularly humus, which enhances its ability to retain moisture and nutrients. |
| Parent Material | The original rock or sediment from which soil is formed, influencing the soil's characteristics and composition. |
| Percolation | The process by which water moves through soil layers, affecting soil moisture and nutrient availability. |
| Soil Saturation | The condition in which all the pore spaces in the soil are filled with water, affecting plant growth and soil health. |
| Soil Infiltration | The process by which water enters and moves through the soil, critical for groundwater recharge and preventing surface runoff. |
| Weathering | The breakdown of rocks and minerals into smaller particles through physical, chemical, or biological processes, contributing to soil formation. |
| Soil Texture | The classification of soil based on the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay, influencing its drainage and nutrient-holding capacity. |
| Aeration | The process of introducing air into the soil, improving oxygen availability for roots and promoting healthy plant growth. |