Hayat Ashraf

Soil is a complex and dynamic natural resource that forms the outermost layer of the Earth's crust. It serves as a vital medium for plant growth, supports terrestrial ecosystems, and plays a crucial role in various environmental processes. Here are some key points about soil: 1. Composition: Soil is composed of mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air. The mineral particles come from weathered rocks and minerals, while organic matter consists of decomposed plant and animal material. The proportions of these components vary depending on factors such as climate, parent material, vegetation, and time. 2. Soil Formation: Soil formation, or pedogenesis, occurs through the interaction of five main factors: parent material, climate, organisms, topography, and time. Over time, weathering processes break down rocks, and organic matter accumulates, leading to the development of distinct soil horizons (layers) with different characteristics. 3. Soil Horizons: Soil is typically organi...