soil

soil

1. soil-top layer of the earths surface

2. mineral particles,air,water,plant remains,living organisims

3. humus-dark organic matter in the soil that improves fertility

4. soil profile

   • plant litter-decaying leaves and vegitation
   • A horizon-the top soil is dark brown because it contains humus
   • B horizon-the sub soil is a lighter colour because it has less humus and more rocks
   • C horizon-the parent rock

5. podzols

   • grey in colour,form in upland areas with coniferous trees

6. leaching and hardpan

   • when rain washes minerals from the A horizon to the B,which makes it less fertile