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Soils 101

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Last updated over 5 years ago
10 questions
3
2
4
3
3
2
2
3
5
6
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).
Question 1
1.

Define "soil."

Question 2
2.

The composition of soil is dependent on _____.

Question 3
3.

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

Draggable itemarrow_right_altCorresponding Item
45%
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Air
25%
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Humus (organic matter)
25%
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Question 4
4.

Explain how the minerals that primarily compose soil are produced.

USE THE IMAGE TO ANSWER QUESTION 5.
Question 5
5.

Match the mineral particles with the correct particle size.

Draggable itemarrow_right_altCorresponding Item
Sand
arrow_right_alt
A.
Clay
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B.
Silt
arrow_right_alt
C.
Question 6
6.

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

Question 7
7.

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

Question 8
8.

Identify what humus or organic matter is comprised of.

Question 9
9.

Match the characteristic with the correct soil-forming factor.

  • Localized changes in moisture and temperature.
  • Soil temperature and water availability.
  • Exposure to rain and growing plants.
USE THE IMAGE TO ANSWER QUESTION 10.
Question 10
10.

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

  1. C horizon
  2. O horizon
  3. A horizon
  4. B horizon
  5. R horizon
  6. E horizon
Minerals
5%
Water
Unconsolidated organic and mineral material.
Recycling of nutrients by various organisms.
Climate
Landscape Position
Living Organisms
Parent Material
Time