Question

What are the factors affecting soil formation?

1. Climate
2. Topography
3. Time
4. Parent rock

• A. 3, 4
• B. 2, 3
• C. 3 only
• D. All of these

Answer 1

Answer:

D. All of these

Evolution of soil

• The soil is formed by prolonged processes like weathering of rocks and decomposition of organic matter.

• Pedology Branch of science that deals with soil. The scientists associated with this branch are called pedologists.

Factors influencing soil formation:

1. Climate - Soil formation will be slow in cold environments.

2. Topography – Soil will be thin along steep slopes.

3. Parent rock - The minerals and the structure of the soil depend on the rock from which it is formed.

4. Time – Thickness and structure of soil depends on the time taken for its formation.

5. Plants and animals – The acid formed as a result of the decaying of plants and animals cause weathering of rocks.

• Disposal of non-degradable materials like plastic.

• Overuse of chemical fertilizers that alter the structure of soil.

• Unscientific construction and quarrying.

• Use of agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes.

• Draining wastewater into soil on a large scale.

• Overgrazing.

• Top soil is essential for the continued sprouting of life. Check deforestation, Crop rotation, Terrace along hill slopes, Construction of check dams are some ways of soil conservation.

• The UNO observes the 15th of December as the World Soil Day

• 2015 was celebrated as the International Year of Soils.