Question

How would you describe the process of soil formation?

Answer 1

Hint: Soil is considered to be a complex mixture of minerals, organic substances, water and numerous decaying matter of living organisms are found. It is the uppermost layer of earth. Soil is an important factor for plant life and essential for life on earth.

Complete answer:
Soil is the outermost covering of earth, but this thin covering is formed by a proper process which is called soil formation. Soil is formed by the weathering of rocks; hence it is a gradual process that takes years. Weathering process is nothing but the breaking of rocks into minute pieces. Weathering of soil can take place by:
-Mechanical weathering: This is the most common type that takes place frequently. In this the huge rocks are broken down by physical factors such as strong wind, water current and temperature matter too.
-Chemical weathering: When chemical weathering takes place it is because of the presence of any chemical agent. The rocks are broken due to chemical reactions. This type of breakage often changes the chemical composition of soil.
-Biological weathering: This type of weathering is caused by plants and animals. Plants and animals sometimes release acid forming chemicals which results in weathering of rocks.

The type of weathering affects the composition of soil so it is important to know the type of weathering. From the information provided in the hint we know that soil is composed of minerals, water and gases and therefore it is called a heterogenous mixture.

Soil formation is not a very casual process it is also affected by a few factors like:
-Organisms: Types of organisms affect the process. The organism may be plant, animal, microorganisms or fungi.
-Climate: Temperature plays an important role as the soil formation prefers heat and moisture. If the climate is dry and cool the rate of formation decreases effectively.
-Topography: The size, shape, area and amount of rainfall received is also taken into consideration.
-Time: The time taken for the formation of soil affects the properties of the soil.

Note: Soil is found in various types and textures. They are present in layers and are not easy to distinguish. Soil can be classified into three classes based on size and texture. The three main forms are clay, sand and slit. The fertile soil is used for the development and growth of plants. The fertile soil has perfect composition that supports growth of plants.