8.3 Soils

Question 1

Desertification

Answer 1

The process by which once-productive lands have become increasingly desert-like through drought or improper use.

Question 2

Humus

Answer 2

Decayed organic material in soil.

Question 3

Soil

Answer 3

A loose, complex mixture of mineral grains, organic material, water, and air that lies on Earth’s surface.

Question 4

Soil conservation

Answer 4

The prevention of soil erosion or other degradations of soil through the adoption of wise agricultural practices.

Question 5

Soil horizon

Answer 5

A distinct horizontal zone or layer in soil.

Question 6

Soil profile

Answer 6

A vertical section or slice through a soil, from Earth’s surface down to the soil’s parent material.

Question 7

Soil texture

Answer 7

The relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil, often displayed on the soil texture triangle.

Question 8

Topsoil

Answer 8

The uppermost, nutrient-rich part of soil, consisting of the A and O horizons.