Question

The smallest of the soil particles, holds soil nutrients, influences soil acidity, and holds more moisture is:
(A) Sand
(B) Slit
(C) Clay
(D) Coarse sand

Answer 1

Hint: Soils are of different types with different characteristic features. Soil is the natural resource which provides habitat for many living organisms and plant growth. The part of soil holding moisture is also used in pottery.

Complete step-by-step answer
Soil is a natural entity with ability to recycle waste, filter water, used in construction projects, as well as provide growth nutrients for plants and different types of organisms. Soil is categorized into different types like sand, slit, peat, loam, clay, and chalk, etc.
Sandy soil also known as light soil is warm and dry and has low pH, that is it is acidic in nature with very less amount of nutrients. It comprises a high proportion of sand and a very less proportion of clay. Slit soil is highly fertile soil with moisture retention capacity. These soils have medium sized soil particles. Peat soil can hold a large amount of moisture and have high organic matters and is usually used for gardening. Chalk soil has calcium carbonate or lime in it which makes it more alkaline in nature. They can be high or light soils and do not support plant growth. Loam soil is a combination of sand, slit, and clay soil without negative effect of each other. It is very fertile and provides good drainage that drains out water easily.
Clay soil is high in nutrients and is a heavy type of soil. It holds a large amount of water, hence is more moisture. It is acidic in nature.
Hence, the correct option will be option C – Clay.

Note:
Clay soil can be used for growth of plants as it has a high amount of nutrients and minerals. Due to its moist and compact nature, clay is used highly in pottery and ceramics. Some research also says that it has some elements which can be used for medicinal purposes.