Question

formation of soil horizons
soil forms as rock is broken down by
and mixes with other
materials.

• horizon o forms at the surface due to the

accumulation of organic material.

• horizon a is mineral rich and forms due to

organic material from above.

• horizon b undergoes the most change and no

longer resembles parent material.

• horizon c features parent material and is barely

affected by the formation process.
rate of soil formation
the rate of soil formation depends on climate and type of parent material.

• climate

: warmer weather creates soil faster.
: more precipitation creates soil faster.

• type of parent material

composition: some minerals are more resistant
to weathering.
: rocks that have a larger grain size break down
more quickly.

• layers: rocks with clearly defined layers undergo weathering at

a faster pace.

Explanation:

Soil forms as rock is broken down by weathering. Horizon A forms due to the incorporation of organic material from above. Horizon C is barely affected by the soil - formation process. In climate, temperature (warmer weather creates soil faster) and precipitation (more precipitation creates soil faster) are factors. For the type of parent material, mineral composition (some minerals are more resistant to weathering) and grain size (larger grain - sized rocks break down more quickly) are relevant.

Answer:

1. Weathering
2. Incorporation
3. Soil
4. Temperature
5. Precipitation
6. Mineral
7. Grain size