Soils

Level: 1

Requirements

• Define what “soil” means?
• Where on earth is all soil located?
• What are 5 key factors in soil formation?
• Define the following terms:
  • A-Horizon
  • B-Horizon
  • C-Horizon
  • Organic layer
  • Mineral layer
  • Clay
  • Leaching
  • Silica
  • Humus
  • Soil Profile
  • Parent Material
  • Pedologist
• Define the term “Soil Classification”. Why are soils classified?
• Discuss three differences between the following soil types:
  • Desert
  • Temperate
  • Tropical
• Examine a 2-foot vertical section of soil. Label the different types of organic matter found, identify the different soil horizons, and mark the transition from the soil layer to the mineral layer.
• Draw, photograph, or collect and correctly label 5 different soil types.