Soil Assessment Mcfadden Pd 2
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Soil is a mixture of weathered rock, mineral fragments, water, air and _____.
- A.
Sand
- B.
Decayed organic matter
- C.
Moss
- D.
Clay
Correct Answer
B. Decayed organic matterExplanation
Soil is composed of various components, including weathered rock, mineral fragments, water, air, and decayed organic matter. Decay of organic materials, such as dead plants and animals, contributes to the formation of humus, which is a dark, nutrient-rich substance that enhances soil fertility. Therefore, the presence of decayed organic matter in soil is essential for supporting plant growth and providing nutrients for organisms in the soil ecosystem.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The layer of soil that contains the most organic material is called the _____ horizon.
- A.
A
- B.
B
- C.
C
Correct Answer
A. AExplanation
The layer of soil that contains the most organic material is called the A horizon. This is because the A horizon, also known as the topsoil, is the uppermost layer of soil that is rich in organic matter such as decomposed plant and animal material. It is the most fertile layer of soil and is crucial for supporting plant growth.Rate this question:
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- 3.
All of the following cause mechanical weathering EXCEPT _____.
- A.
Ice
- B.
Tree roots
- C.
Burrowing animals
- D.
Carbonic acid
Correct Answer
D. Carbonic acidExplanation
Mechanical weathering refers to the physical breakdown of rocks into smaller fragments without changing their chemical composition. Ice, tree roots, and burrowing animals all contribute to mechanical weathering by exerting physical force on rocks, causing them to crack or break apart. Carbonic acid, on the other hand, is a chemical weathering agent that breaks down rocks through a process called dissolution. Therefore, carbonic acid does not cause mechanical weathering and is the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Litter often covers the _____ horizon.
- A.
A
- B.
B
- C.
C
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
A. AExplanation
The correct answer is A. The explanation for this is that litter often covers the A horizon. The A horizon is the topmost layer of soil, also known as the topsoil. This layer is rich in organic matter and nutrients, making it a prime location for the accumulation of litter. Litter, such as leaves, twigs, and other debris, can easily accumulate on the surface of the A horizon, covering it and potentially impacting the health and fertility of the soil.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Chemical weathering is more rapid in a _____ climate.
- A.
Warm, dry
- B.
Warm, wet
- C.
Cold, dry
- D.
Cold, wet
Correct Answer
B. Warm, wetExplanation
Chemical weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals are broken down through chemical reactions. It occurs more rapidly in a warm, wet climate because the presence of moisture and higher temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions involved. The water acts as a solvent, facilitating the dissolution and transportation of minerals, while the warmth increases the rate of chemical reactions. In contrast, cold and dry climates have slower rates of chemical weathering due to the lack of moisture and lower temperatures, which inhibit the necessary chemical reactions.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Mechanical weathering is more rapid in a _____ climate.
- A.
Dry
- B.
Hot
- C.
Cold
- D.
Humid
Correct Answer
C. ColdExplanation
Mechanical weathering is more rapid in a cold climate because of the freeze-thaw cycle. In colder temperatures, water can seep into cracks and crevices in rocks. When the temperature drops, the water freezes and expands, exerting pressure on the surrounding rock. This repeated freezing and thawing weakens the rock, causing it to break apart more easily. In contrast, in hot and dry climates, there is less water available for this freeze-thaw cycle to occur, resulting in slower mechanical weathering.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Soil erosion can be slowed by _____.
- A.
No-till farming
- B.
Cutting trees from the middle of fields
- C.
Plowing at least three times a year
- D.
Farming on steeper slopes
Correct Answer
A. No-till farmingExplanation
No-till farming can slow down soil erosion because it involves leaving the soil undisturbed by not plowing or tilling it. This helps to maintain the soil structure and prevent the loss of topsoil through erosion. By keeping the soil covered with crop residue, such as crop stubble or cover crops, it reduces the impact of raindrops on the soil surface and improves water infiltration. This method also promotes the growth of soil microorganisms and improves soil health, further preventing erosion.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The organic matter in humus is made of _____.
- A.
Dead/decaying animals and insects
- B.
Leaves
- C.
Sticks/branches
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The organic matter in humus is made up of dead or decaying animals and insects, as well as leaves and sticks/branches. Humus is the dark, organic material that forms in soil when plant and animal matter decomposes. It is rich in nutrients and helps improve soil structure and fertility.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The rate of weathering depends upon the area's _____.
- A.
Oxygen
- B.
Climate
- C.
Water
- D.
Soil
Correct Answer
B. ClimateExplanation
The rate of weathering depends on the area's climate. Climate plays a significant role in weathering processes as temperature, humidity, and precipitation patterns can affect the physical and chemical breakdown of rocks and minerals. For example, areas with high temperatures and frequent rainfall may experience more intense chemical weathering due to increased water availability and chemical reactions. On the other hand, cold climates with freeze-thaw cycles can cause mechanical weathering through the expansion and contraction of water in cracks and crevices. Therefore, climate is a crucial factor in determining the rate and type of weathering that occurs in a particular area.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The rock and mineral fragments in soil come from rock that has been _____.
- A.
Blasted
- B.
Carved
- C.
Weathered
- D.
Chemically treated
Correct Answer
C. WeatheredExplanation
The rock and mineral fragments in soil come from rock that has been weathered. Weathering refers to the process of breaking down rocks into smaller pieces through physical or chemical means. This can occur due to exposure to elements such as wind, water, and temperature changes. As a result, the rock undergoes weathering, leading to the formation of soil.Rate this question:
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- 11.
On steep slopes and mountains, __________________ helps reduce erosion by creating level topped areas so crops can be grown.
- A.
A shelter belt
- B.
Strip cropping
- C.
Mulching
- D.
Terracing
Correct Answer
D. TerracingExplanation
Terracing is the correct answer because it involves creating level topped areas on steep slopes and mountains. This technique helps to reduce erosion by preventing water runoff and allowing crops to be grown more easily. Terracing involves constructing a series of steps or platforms on the slope, which helps to slow down the flow of water and prevent soil erosion. Additionally, terracing also helps to retain moisture in the soil and prevent it from being washed away.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Soils in _________ contain little organic material are are thinner making it very hard to grow crops.
- A.
Tropical areas
- B.
Deserts
- C.
Prairies
- D.
Temperate forests
Correct Answer
B. DesertsExplanation
Deserts have soils that contain little organic material and are thin, which makes it difficult to grow crops. The lack of organic material means that there is a limited amount of nutrients available for plants to thrive. Additionally, the thinness of the soil makes it challenging for plant roots to penetrate and access water and nutrients. These factors combined make it very hard to cultivate crops in desert areas.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Plants cannot grow without _____.
- A.
Rocks
- B.
Soil
- C.
Moss
- D.
Pesticides
Correct Answer
B. SoilExplanation
Plants cannot grow without soil because soil provides essential nutrients, water, and support to the roots. Soil contains minerals and organic matter that are necessary for plant growth. It also acts as a medium for roots to anchor themselves and absorb water and nutrients. Without soil, plants would not be able to obtain the necessary resources for their survival and growth.Rate this question:
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- 14.
__________ regions are especially vulnerable to erosion because once cleared, there is very little ground cover.
- A.
Desert
- B.
Tropical
- C.
Mountain
- D.
Prairie
Correct Answer
B. TropicalExplanation
Tropical regions are especially vulnerable to erosion because once cleared, there is very little ground cover. The high temperatures and heavy rainfall in tropical areas promote rapid vegetation growth. However, when the vegetation is cleared, there is no longer any protection for the soil against erosion caused by wind and water. The absence of ground cover leaves the soil exposed, making it more susceptible to erosion.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The mass of clay, silt, sand, and boulders that covers much of the United States was deposited by _____.
- A.
Farming
- B.
Glaciers
- C.
Ice wedging
- D.
Huge bulldozers
Correct Answer
B. GlaciersExplanation
The correct answer is glaciers. Glaciers are large masses of ice that move slowly over land, picking up and carrying sediment as they go. As glaciers advance and retreat, they deposit this sediment, including clay, silt, sand, and boulders, creating the mass of material that covers much of the United States. This process, known as glacial deposition, is responsible for shaping the landscape and creating features such as moraines and drumlins.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Ice wedging is brought about by _____.
- A.
Carbonic acid freezing on rocks
- B.
Water and oxygen reacting
- C.
Water freezing and thawing
- D.
Rocks colliding with each other
Correct Answer
C. Water freezing and thawingExplanation
Ice wedging is a process where water enters cracks in rocks, freezes, expands, and then thaws, causing the crack to widen. This repeated freezing and thawing of water exerts pressure on the rocks, leading to the gradual breakdown of the rock material. This process is responsible for the formation of potholes, crevices, and other erosional features in rocks.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Minerals found in the B horizon were dissolved in water and carried there by a process called _____.
- A.
Oxidation
- B.
Leaching
- C.
Weathering
- D.
Littering
Correct Answer
B. LeachingExplanation
Minerals found in the B horizon were dissolved in water and carried there by a process called leaching. Leaching is the process of water carrying dissolved substances, such as minerals, downward through the soil profile. As water percolates through the soil, it dissolves minerals from the upper layers and transports them to the B horizon. This process is important for the movement and redistribution of nutrients within the soil profile.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Oxidation occurs when some materials are exposed to _________.
- A.
Oxygen and water
- B.
Carbonic acid
- C.
Kaolinite
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
A. Oxygen and waterExplanation
Oxidation occurs when some materials are exposed to oxygen and water. Oxygen is a highly reactive element that readily combines with other substances, while water provides the necessary medium for the oxidation reaction to take place. When materials come into contact with oxygen and water, they undergo a chemical reaction that leads to the loss of electrons, resulting in oxidation. Therefore, the correct answer is oxygen and water.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The B horizon is _____.
- A.
Rockier than the C horizon
- B.
Richer in humus than the A horizon
- C.
Lighter in color than the A horizon
- D.
Thinner than the C horizon
Correct Answer
C. Lighter in color than the A horizonExplanation
The B horizon is lighter in color than the A horizon because it contains less organic matter and minerals. The A horizon, also known as topsoil, is typically darker in color due to the accumulation of organic material and nutrients. In contrast, the B horizon is often lighter in color as it consists of weathered rock fragments and minerals that have been leached from the upper layers. This leaching process removes some of the darker organic matter and minerals, resulting in a lighter color.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Plants don't grow as well when _____ has been lost.
- A.
Clay
- B.
Topsoil
- C.
Parent rock
- D.
Slope
Correct Answer
B. TopsoilExplanation
Plants don't grow as well when topsoil has been lost because topsoil is the uppermost layer of soil that contains the highest concentration of organic matter and nutrients. It provides a fertile environment for plant roots to anchor and absorb water and essential nutrients. Without topsoil, plants struggle to establish strong root systems and access the necessary nutrients for growth.Rate this question:
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- 21.
_____ is a factor that affects soil development.
- A.
Time
- B.
Slope
- C.
Type of rock
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
All of the above factors - time, slope, and type of rock - affect soil development. Over time, weathering and erosion processes break down rocks and create soil. The slope of the land determines the rate of erosion and the movement of water, which affects soil formation. Different types of rock have different mineral compositions, which influence the fertility and characteristics of the soil that forms from them. Therefore, all of these factors play a role in soil development.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The _____ horizon has smaller rock and mineral particles than the other layers.
- A.
A
- B.
B
- C.
C
Correct Answer
A. AExplanation
The correct answer is A. The A horizon, also known as the topsoil, has smaller rock and mineral particles compared to the other layers. This is because the A horizon is the uppermost layer of soil, which is rich in organic matter and nutrients due to the accumulation of decomposed plant and animal material. The smaller particles in this layer provide a better environment for root growth and nutrient absorption by plants.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Below the C horizon is _____.
- A.
Topsil
- B.
Rock (parent material)
- C.
Clay
- D.
Humus
Correct Answer
B. Rock (parent material)Explanation
The C horizon is the layer of soil that is located beneath the B horizon. It is composed of weathered parent material, which is the rock material from which the soil has formed over time. Therefore, the correct answer is rock (parent material).Rate this question:
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- 24.
Mechanical weathering _____.
- A.
Breaks apart rocks by physical processes
- B.
Occurs when chemical reactions dissolve of change the minerals in rocks
- C.
Occurs when iron is exposed to oxygen and water
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Breaks apart rocks by physical processesExplanation
Mechanical weathering refers to the physical processes that break apart rocks. This can occur through various mechanisms such as freeze-thaw cycles, abrasion from wind or water, and the expansion and contraction of rocks due to temperature changes. Unlike chemical weathering, which involves the dissolution or alteration of minerals in rocks through chemical reactions, mechanical weathering does not involve any chemical changes. Therefore, the correct answer is that mechanical weathering breaks apart rocks by physical processes.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Chemical weathering _____.
- A.
Is caused by freezing and thawing
- B.
Breaks apart rocks by physical processes
- C.
Occurs when chemical reactions dissolve or change the minerals in rocks
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. Occurs when chemical reactions dissolve or change the minerals in rocksExplanation
Chemical weathering refers to the process in which minerals in rocks are dissolved or altered by chemical reactions. This process is different from physical weathering, which involves the physical breakdown of rocks through freezing and thawing or other physical forces. Therefore, the correct answer is that chemical weathering occurs when chemical reactions dissolve or change the minerals in rocks.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In areas where freezing and thawing occur frequently (ice wedging), rocks weather rapidly because of the _____ of freezing water.
- A.
Evaporation
- B.
Expansion
- C.
Leaching
- D.
Oxidation
Correct Answer
B. ExpansionExplanation
In areas where freezing and thawing occur frequently, rocks weather rapidly because of the expansion of freezing water. When water freezes, it expands and takes up more space, exerting pressure on the surrounding rocks. This repeated expansion and contraction weakens the rocks, causing them to break apart and weather more quickly.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When water mixes with carbon dioxide in the air or soil, ___________ forms creating a type of chemical weathering.
- A.
Carbonic acid
- B.
Lactic acid
- C.
Calcite
- D.
Oxygen
Correct Answer
A. Carbonic acidExplanation
When water mixes with carbon dioxide in the air or soil, it forms carbonic acid creating a type of chemical weathering. This is because carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid, which then reacts with minerals in the soil or rocks, causing them to break down and weather over time. Carbonic acid is a weak acid, but its continuous action can lead to the erosion and dissolution of minerals such as calcite, which is a common component of rocks like limestone.Rate this question:
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- 28.
_____ turns and loosens soil, improving it for crops, but leaving soil vulnerable to erosion.
- A.
Grazing
- B.
No-tilling farming
- C.
Plowing
- D.
Terracing
Correct Answer
C. PlowingExplanation
Plowing is the act of turning and loosening the soil, which helps to improve its quality for growing crops. However, plowing also leaves the soil vulnerable to erosion. When the soil is turned over, it exposes the topsoil to wind and water erosion, which can lead to the loss of valuable nutrients and organic matter. Therefore, while plowing can initially benefit crop growth, it is important to implement erosion control measures to minimize the negative effects of soil erosion.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Soil erosion occurs _____.
- A.
Where grazing animals eat away all the ground cover
- B.
When forests are removed
- C.
On steep slopes
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Soil erosion occurs when grazing animals eat away all the ground cover, when forests are removed, and on steep slopes. All of these factors contribute to the loss of soil through various mechanisms such as trampling, removal of vegetation that holds the soil together, and increased runoff on steep slopes. Therefore, the statement "all of the above" accurately describes the different scenarios in which soil erosion can occur.Rate this question:
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- 30.
When farmers leave plant stalks in the field over the winter months and later plant crops without destroying the plant stalks to reduce soil erosion, it is called ________________.
- A.
Contour farming
- B.
Plowing
- C.
No-till farming
- D.
Terracing
Correct Answer
C. No-till farmingExplanation
No-till farming refers to the practice of leaving plant stalks in the field over the winter months and planting crops without destroying the stalks. This method helps to reduce soil erosion by providing cover and protecting the soil from wind and water erosion. By leaving the stalks intact, the soil structure and organic matter are preserved, improving soil health and fertility. Additionally, no-till farming helps to conserve moisture, enhance nutrient cycling, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and herbicides.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The three horizons in the figure below make up __________________.
- A.
A soil profile
- B.
A report
- C.
Horizon C
- D.
Horizon C
Correct Answer
A. A soil profileExplanation
The three horizons in the figure make up a soil profile. A soil profile is a vertical section of the soil that shows the different layers or horizons. These horizons are formed over time due to various processes such as weathering, deposition, and organic matter accumulation. Each horizon has distinct characteristics and properties that contribute to the overall composition and fertility of the soil. Understanding the soil profile is important for studying soil formation, nutrient cycling, and agricultural practices.Rate this question:
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- 32.
In the figure below, ________________ contains the most humus.
- A.
Horizon A
- B.
Horizon B
- C.
Horizon C
Correct Answer
A. Horizon AExplanation
Horizon A contains the most humus because it is the uppermost layer of soil, also known as the topsoil. This layer is rich in organic matter, such as decomposed plant and animal material, which contributes to the presence of humus. Horizon B is the subsoil layer, which typically has less organic matter than the topsoil. Horizon C is the parent material layer, which is composed of rock fragments and has minimal organic matter. Therefore, horizon A is the correct answer as it is the layer that contains the most humus.Rate this question:
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- 33.
In the figure below, ________________ is most likely to contain the parent material.
- A.
Horizon A
- B.
Horizon B
- C.
Horizon C
Correct Answer
C. Horizon CExplanation
Horizon C is most likely to contain the parent material because it is the deepest horizon in the soil profile. Parent material refers to the original material from which the soil is formed, and it typically accumulates at the bottom of the soil profile over time. Horizons A and B are more likely to contain organic matter and other soil constituents that have been transported or weathered from the parent material above. Therefore, horizon C is the best candidate for containing the parent material.Rate this question:
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- 34.
In the figure below, the leaching of minerals is most likely to occur from _____________ to ______________________.
- A.
Horizon A; horizon C
- B.
Horizon B; horizon C
- C.
Horizon C; horizon A
- D.
Horizon A; horizon B
Correct Answer
D. Horizon A; horizon BExplanation
Leaching of minerals refers to the process by which minerals are dissolved and washed away from the soil. In this case, it is most likely to occur from horizon A to horizon B. This is because horizon A is the topmost layer of soil and is typically rich in organic matter and minerals. As water percolates through the soil, it carries away dissolved minerals from horizon A and deposits them in horizon B, which is the layer beneath horizon A. Therefore, the leaching of minerals is most likely to occur from horizon A to horizon B.Rate this question:
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- 35.
In the figure below, the ___________________ is also known as subsoil
- A.
Horizon A
- B.
Horizon B
- C.
Horizon C
Correct Answer
B. Horizon BExplanation
In the figure, horizon B is also known as subsoil. Subsoil is the layer of soil that lies underneath the topsoil (horizon A) and above the parent material (horizon C). It is typically composed of minerals and nutrients that have leached down from the topsoil, as well as weathered rock fragments. Subsoil plays an important role in plant growth and water drainage, as it provides support for roots and allows water to move through the soil profile.Rate this question:
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- 36.
In the figure below, the _________________ would have the least organic matter.
- A.
Horizon A
- B.
Horizon B
- C.
Horizon C
Correct Answer
C. Horizon CExplanation
Horizon C would have the least organic matter because it is the deepest layer of soil, also known as the parent material. This layer is typically composed of weathered rock fragments and minerals, with very little organic material. In contrast, horizon A is the topmost layer and contains the most organic matter, as it is rich in decomposed plant and animal material. Horizon B lies between horizon A and C and may contain some organic matter, but generally less than horizon A.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Using the soil texture triangle below, determine what percentage of clay is in sandy clay.
- A.
35% - 55%
- B.
20% - 35%
- C.
0% - 10%
- D.
15% - 20%
Correct Answer
A. 35% - 55%Explanation
Based on the soil texture triangle, sandy clay falls within the range of 35% to 55% clay content. This means that the soil sample classified as sandy clay contains clay particles that make up 35% to 55% of its total composition.Rate this question:
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- 38.
A soil consists of 10% sand, 20% clay, and 70% silt. Using the soil texture triangle below, identify the soil type.
- A.
Silty loam
- B.
Silty clay loam
- C.
Sandy loam
- D.
Loamy sand
Correct Answer
A. Silty loamExplanation
Based on the given percentages of sand, clay, and silt, the soil falls within the range of 70% silt, which is located in the middle of the soil texture triangle. Additionally, the soil contains 10% sand, which places it closer to the loam region. Therefore, the soil type can be identified as silty loam.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Using the soil texture triangle below, identify the properties of loam.
- A.
40% sand, 20% clay, 40% silt
- B.
60% sand, 20% clay, 20% silt
- C.
20% sand, 30% clay, 50% silt
- D.
40% sand, 35% clay, 25% silt
Correct Answer
A. 40% sand, 20% clay, 40% siltExplanation
Loam is a type of soil that contains a balanced mixture of sand, clay, and silt. The correct answer of 40% sand, 20% clay, and 40% silt aligns with this definition. This composition indicates that loam has a good balance of drainage (sand), water-holding capacity (silt), and nutrient retention (clay). The other options either have an imbalance of one or more of these components or do not match the proportions required for loam.Rate this question:
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- 40.
On gentle slopes, planting along the natural contours of the land is called ________________
- A.
Contour farming
- B.
Terracing
- C.
Strip mining
- D.
Conservation planting
Correct Answer
A. Contour farmingExplanation
Contour farming is the correct answer because it involves planting crops along the natural contours or curves of the land. This technique helps to prevent soil erosion by slowing down the flow of water and allowing it to be absorbed by the soil. By following the contour lines, farmers can create small ridges or furrows that act as barriers to prevent runoff and retain moisture. This method is particularly effective on gentle slopes as it helps to conserve soil and water resources while promoting sustainable agriculture practices.Rate this question:
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.JPG "The three horizons in the figure below make up __________________.")
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Mar 15, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Feb 03, 2015Quiz Created by
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