name the four layer of soil what does each layer consists of
Answers
The O-Horizon. ...
The A-Horizon or Topsoil. ...
The E-Horizon. ...
The B-Horizon or Subsoil. ...
The C-Horizon or Saprolite. ...
The R-Horizon. ...
Answer:
1. bedrock
2. parent rock
3. subsoil
4. topsoil.
Explanation:
Soil consists of the following horizons:
1. Horizon A or Topsoil .
It is also called the humus layer, which is rich in organic material. This layer consists of decomposed material and organic matter. This is the reason, the topsoil has a dark brown color. The hummus makes the topsoil soft, porous to hold enough air and water. In this layer, the seeds germinate and roots of the plants grow. Many living organisms like earthworms, millipedes, and centipedes, bacteria, and fungi are found in this layer of soil .
2. Horizon B or Subsoil .
Just below the topsoil lies another layer called subsoil or horizon-B. It is comparatively harder and compact than topsoil. It is lighter in color than the topsoil because there is less humus in this layer. This layer is less organic but is rich in minerals brought down from the topsoil. It contains metal salts, especially iron oxide in a large proportion. Farmers often mix horizon-A and horizon-B when ploughing their fields.
3. Bedrock or Horizon C .
Bedrock is also known as parent rock and lies just below the subsoil. It contains no organic matter and made up of stones and rocks, so it is very hard. This layer represents a transition zone between the earth’s bedrock and horizon A and B.