Question

explain the process of soil formation of 5 marks

Answer 1

MARK AS BRAINLIEST ANSWER

Soil formation is a slow process. it takes thousands of years to form a very thin layer.

Thickness of the soil is seldom more than one to three meters. beyond this depth, rocks do not have the elements necessary for plant growth. the right mix of minerals and organic matter the soil fertile.

Soil is formed under specific naturals conditions. the quality of soil varies from place to place. soil also differs in colour, texture and fertility.

The factors responsible for soil formation are as follows :

1. Parent Rock material. = underlying rocks which contain minerals and make up the bulk of the soil are called the parent rocks. parent rocks influence the colour, texture, chemical properties, minerals content and permeability of the soil.

2. Relief = The elevation and the nature of slope influence the rate of weathering and drainage of water. thus, flat areas have tichker layer of soil as compared to steep slopes.

3. Climatic conditions .= climatic condition exert both indirect and direct influence on soil formation. seasonal distribution of temperature and rainfall determine the type and effectiveness of weathering of rocks and humus formation.

4. Plant and animal organism. = plants and micro organism help to convert young soil into mature soil. dead plants provide humus which is consumed by others from of life, like bacteria.

5. Time = a body of soil is considered mature if the soil forming processes have acted over a sufficient period of time and the soil has developed a distinct soil profile.

Answer 2

Soil is the thin layer of material covering the earth’s surface and is formed from the weathering of rocks. It is made up mainly of mineral particles, organic materials, air, water and living organisms—all of which interact slowly yet constantly.

Most plants get their nutrients from the soil and they are the main source of food for humans, animals and birds. Therefore, most living things on land depend on soil for their existence.

Soil is a valuable resource that needs to be carefully managed as it is easily damaged, washed or blown away. If we understand soil and manage it properly, we will avoid destroying one of the essential building blocks of our environment and our food security.