Question

Name the factors responsible for the formation of Soil.

State any two factors responsible for the formation of soil.

Answer 1

1. Climate: The climate in which Soil develops is the most important factor. It is responsible for the following:
   (a) Weathering: Extremes of temperature, freezing and thawing of ice break down rocks and favour Soil formation.
   (b) Vegetation: The growth and decay of vegetation determines the humus content of the Soil. Roots of plants penetrate the Soil and make it porous.
   (c) Bio-chemical processes taking place in Soil: Bacteria and fungi cause the decay of plants and animal remains. Some transform the atmospheric nitrogen into Soil nitrogen.
2. The Parent rock: The physical and chemical composition of the parent rock determines the relative proportion of different minerals in the Soil layers.
3. The Topography: The slope of the land surface is an important factor in the formation of Soil layer.
   (a) Hills and slopes: Steep slopes usually have a thin Soil layer because weathered particles are easily carried downslope by running water and wind.
   (b) Plains and Valleys: On flat plains and in valleys, thick fertile Soils are developed.

Answer 2

Soil formation is influenced by natural factors like temperature, water flow, and wind. Soil evolution is influenced by natural forces, chemical and organic changes, and other factors. The soil has evolved over millions of years.