Question

Define the terms humus, humification and mineralization.

Answer 1

Hint: Organic matter is produced from the dead and decaying matter of plants and animals with the help of microorganisms. The organic matter thus produced is known as the humus and the process of its formation is referred to as humification. Metals and other elements combine to form minerals.

Complete answer:
-Humus refers to a non-living organic matter formed through decomposition of dead and decay organic matter. The density of soil in bulk is considerably affected by humus. It helps in retaining the nutrients and moisture in the soil. Humus is an organic component which is colloidal in nature. It is an amorphous, dark colored complex.
-The process of humus formation is referred to as humification. The organic matter that has attained a mature stage is referred to as humus. It occurs through decomposition of dead remains of plants and animals. It occurs through the process of oxidation. It can be done by adding the oxygen from oxygenated water or groundwater table could be lowered or by raising the temperature of peat.
-Further this humus could be degraded with the help of microorganisms. This will release the inorganic substance into the surrounding soil. This process is known as mineralization. It is defined as the oxidation or decomposition of the chemical components present in the organic matter. This releases the nutrients from those chemical compounds into the inorganic forms that are soluble and may be obtainable to plants.

Note: Any animal or plant material that is recycled back to the soil through the process of decomposition is known as the organic matter. This provides nutrients to the organisms inhabiting the soil and moreover, it also helps in increasing the water holding capacity of soil.