Soils 101 - Andrew Franck | Library

INSTRUCTIONS: Answer the following questions related to the USDA (Agriculture) article:
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/edu/7thru12/?cid=nrcseprd885606#soil1
(Note: Refer back to the website if you are having difficulty).

3

Define "soil."

2

The composition of soil is dependent on _____.

4

Match the average percentage (by volume) with the correct soil ingredient.

Draggable item		Corresponding Item
5%		Air
45%		Humus (organic matter)
25%		Minerals
25%		Water

3

Explain how the minerals that primarily compose soil are produced.

USE THE IMAGE TO ANSWER QUESTION 5.

3

Match the mineral particles with the correct particle size.

Draggable item		Corresponding Item
Sand		A.
Clay		B.
Silt		C.

2

Of the three, which particle is the most reactive mineral ingredient in the soil?

2

What two elements occupy the pore spaces and are essential to the life of soil organisms?

3

Identify what humus or organic matter is comprised of.

5

Match the characteristic with the correct soil-forming factor.

Exposure to rain and growing plants.
Soil temperature and water availability.
Unconsolidated organic and mineral material.
Localized changes in moisture and temperature.
Recycling of nutrients by various organisms.

Climate
Landscape Position
Living Organisms
Parent Material
Time

USE THE IMAGE TO ANSWER QUESTION 10.

6

Sequence the soil horizons in the correct order from the uppermost layer (1) to the lowest layer (6).

B horizon
C horizon
R horizon
O horizon
E horizon
A horizon