A Quiz On Soil Properties! Trivia

The correct answer is a mixture of mineral, humus, air, and water on Earth's surface. Soil is composed of various components including minerals, organic matter (humus), air, and water. These components interact to support plant growth and provide a habitat for organisms. Soil also plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling, water filtration, and erosion control.

Subsoil refers to the layer of soil that lies beneath the topsoil. It is typically composed of a mixture of sand, silt, clay, and other organic matter. The subsoil plays a crucial role in providing support and stability to plants, as well as in regulating water drainage and nutrient availability. It is generally less fertile than topsoil and may require additional amendments or management practices to improve its quality for agricultural purposes.

A natural resource refers to something that is found in nature and can be used by humans for various purposes. It can be anything from minerals, water, air, forests, or even sunlight. These resources are essential for human survival and are necessary for various activities such as food production, energy generation, and manufacturing. Therefore, a natural resource fits the description of something from Earth that people need or use.

Humus is the organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of dead plants and animals. It is rich in nutrients and helps to improve soil fertility. This decomposition process is carried out by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. Therefore, it is correct to say that humus comes from dead plants and animals.

Soil is a mixture of mineral, humus, air, and water on earth's surface. It is formed through the weathering of rocks and the decomposition of organic matter. Soil provides a medium for plants to grow, as it contains essential nutrients and provides support for their roots. It also plays a crucial role in the water cycle, as it helps to absorb and store water, and acts as a filter for pollutants. Additionally, soil is home to a diverse community of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, which contribute to its fertility and overall health.

The correct answer explains that minerals are nonliving materials that occur naturally and make up rocks. Minerals are solid substances with a definite chemical composition and crystal structure. They can be found in various forms and colors and are essential for the formation of rocks.

Castings refer to the waste material produced by earthworms. These castings are rich in minerals and other nutrients that are beneficial for plants. When earthworms consume organic matter, they break it down and excrete it in the form of castings. These castings improve the quality of the soil by adding essential nutrients, improving soil structure, and enhancing water retention. Therefore, the correct answer states that castings are the waste material of earthworms that contribute to the mineral content and other necessary elements required by plants.

Topsoil is the uppermost layer of soil, typically rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is essential for plant growth and supports a variety of soil organisms. Topsoil formation is a slow process influenced by factors such as climate, vegetation, and parent material.

Strip cropping is a farming technique where different types of crops are planted side by side in strips. This method is used to prevent soil erosion. By planting crops in alternating strips, the roots of one crop help to hold the soil in place while the other crop's roots penetrate deeper into the soil, improving its structure and stability. This helps to reduce water runoff and soil erosion, as well as improve overall soil health and fertility.

Clay is the correct answer because it refers to the smallest rock particles in the soil. Clay particles are tiny and have a smooth texture. They have high water retention capacity and tend to stick together, making the soil heavy and easily compacted. Clay soils are often fertile but can be difficult to work with due to their tendency to become waterlogged and hard when dry.