Soil Science Flashcards
What is the smallest soil particle?
Clay
What is the largest particle of soil?
Sand
Which soil particle will allow for the greatest amount of drainage?
Sand
What are three methods of determining soil texture?
Shake test, ribboning, soil texture triangle.
Acid rain is an example of what type of weathering?
Chemical
Water freezing in between rock is an example of which type of weathering?
Physical
The physical property of soil which is determined by particle size.
Texture
A measure of soil acidity.
pH
Water carrying off nutrients through the soil.
Leaching
Once was living.
Organic
Pockets between soil particles.
Pore space (pores)
Soil particle with least amount of pore space.
Clay
Type of soil that is made from non-living sources.
Inorganic
All organic matter has this element in common.
Carbon
Layers of the soil profile.
Horizons
Must have a microscope to see ______ organisms.
Micro
Low end of the pH scale.
Acidic
Must add this to lower alkalinity of soil.
Sulfur
High end of pH scale.
Alkaline
Must add this to raise pH of soil.
Lime
Perfect combination of sand, silt, and clay.
Loam
The O horizon is mainly composed of?
Organic matter
The C horizon is composed of?
Subsoil
Which soil texture will hold water the strongest?
Clay
What could you infer from gray colored soil?
Poor drainage
What could you infer from a dark colored soil?
Good amount of organic matter
What could you infer from red soils?
High iron content
Why are soils high in iron red?
Oxidization of iron (rust)
What factor determines a soil moisture holding capacity?
Texture
How does compaction effect soil productivity
Decrease pore space, less water holding capacity,less plant growth
How does erosion effect soil productivity?
Decrease in nutrients/organic matter content, less efficient plant growth
