Biosphere: Explaining the formation of Podzol soil

Question 1

Climate: Mor Humus as…

Answer 1

…the cold climate leads to the slow decomposition of needles and cones

Question 2

Climate: Leaching such as the downward movement of aluminium and iron oxides means that…

Answer 2

…precipitation exceeds evaporation.

Question 3

Climate: An iron pan forms between the A and B horizon…

Answer 3

…which can impede drainage and result in waterlogging

Question 4

Climate: The A horizon is ash-grey…

Answer 4

…meaning it is Elluvial as leaching causes nutrients to exit this layer.

Question 5

Climate: The B horizon is reddish-brown…

Answer 5

…meaning that it is Illuvial as leaching allows nutrients to enter this layer

Question 6

Organisms: Coniferous trees…

Answer 6

…produce acidic humus

Question 7

Organisms: Little biological activity results in…

Answer 7

…distinct layers and no mixing.

Question 8

Parent Material: Glacial/fluvio-glacial rocks such as granite are the parent material…

Answer 8

…as they’re acidic rocks acidic humus is produced.