All Flashcards
Why does organic matter increase water retention?
Organic matter acts like a sponge, holding more water.
How does particle size affect porosity?
Larger particles = larger pores = higher porosity.
How does particle size affect permeability?
Larger particles = higher permeability.
What is the relationship between soil compaction and permeability?
High compaction = low permeability.
How do fungi and bacteria affect soil?
They play a huge role in soil composition and nutrient cycles.
What does a high cation exchange capacity indicate?
Stable pH and nutrient levels in the soil.
Why is soil aeration important for plants?
Good aeration provides plants with necessary air, water, and nutrients.
How does soil pH affect plant growth?
Soil pH impacts what nutrients are available and therefore which plants can grow.
What characteristics define a fertile soil?
Adequate nutrients (N, P, K) and organic matter.
What is the importance of soil as an ecosystem?
Soil teems with life, with fungi and bacteria playing key roles in nutrient cycles.
How does soil compaction affect plant growth?
High compaction reduces porosity, permeability, and aeration, hindering root growth and nutrient uptake.
How does deforestation affect soil water-holding capacity?
Deforestation reduces organic matter in the soil, which decreases its ability to retain water.
How does excessive tilling affect soil structure?
Excessive tilling breaks up soil structure, reducing water retention and increasing erosion.
How does low water-holding capacity affect plants?
Low water-holding capacity may lead to water stress for plants, as water drains away quickly.
How does soil pH affect nutrient availability?
Soil pH affects the solubility and availability of essential nutrients for plants.
How does a lack of soil aeration affect plants?
Poor aeration limits oxygen availability to roots, hindering respiration and nutrient uptake.
How does the addition of organic matter affect soil fertility?
Adding organic matter improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, increasing fertility.
How does soil erosion affect water quality?
Soil erosion leads to sedimentation and pollution of water bodies, reducing water quality.
How does over-fertilization affect soil?
Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient imbalances, soil acidification, and water pollution.
How do changes in soil affect the biome?
Changes in soil composition and health can alter the types of plants that can grow, thus affecting the entire biome.
What is the effect of smaller soil particles on water retention?
Smaller particles = higher water retention.
What is the effect of soil compaction on porosity?
High soil compaction = low porosity.
What is the effect of soil compaction on aeration?
High soil compaction = low aeration.
What is the effect of deforestation on soil water-holding capacity?
Deforestation reduces organic matter, thus reducing water retention.
What is the effect of excessive tilling on soil structure?
Excessive tilling breaks up soil structure and reduces water retention.
What is the effect of high water-holding capacity on plant growth?
High water-holding capacity retains water longer, making it available for plant roots.
What is the effect of low water-holding capacity on plant growth?
Low water-holding capacity may lead to water stress for plants, as water drains away quickly.
What is the effect of large particle size on soil porosity?
Larger particles result in larger pore spaces and high porosity.
What is the effect of large particle size on soil permeability?
Larger particles result in higher permeability.
What is the effect of soil pH on nutrient availability?
Soil pH impacts the availability of nutrients for plants.