Franklin Pierce University PA 210 QUIZ 1 1) Soils are dynamic, 3-dimensional, natural bodies having properties derived from the combined effects of climate and biotic activities, as modified by topography, acting on parent materials over periods of time

Franklin Pierce University

PA 210

QUIZ 1

1) Soils are dynamic, 3-dimensional, natural bodies having properties derived from the combined effects of climate and biotic activities, as modified by topography, acting on parent materials over periods of time.

2. The parent material of a soil is always derived from the hard rock immediately underlying it.

3.  The movement of fine clay and humus through the soil profile represents the pedogenic process called translocation.
4. The composition of an ideal soil is 50% mineral matter, 25% organic matter, 15% air and 10% water.
5. As a medium for plant growth, soil provides__________for root respiration, modifies the

_____________of the root zone, and is a source of dissolved mineral______________ .

6. Soil organic matter

1. 1. makes up about 5% of the volume and 1-6% of the weight of a typical surface soil

1. 2. has no influence on soil physical and chemical characteristics

1. 3. is a major source of N, P and S for plants

1. 4. all of the above

1. 5. a and c only

7. Chemical or physical changes in soil minerals and organic matter represent what type of pedogenic process?