Explain the formation of soils, different weathering processes and erosion.

Introduction

When most people think about the resources we use, most of them will immediately think about water and air and fossil fuels. However, one resource that is absolutely vital to our existence (and other species as well) is soil. In this section, we will see how soil is formed, we will see why all soils are not the same, and we will see what the soil looks like in different biomes.

Soil starts with the weathering and erosion of rocks.
But it also includes the addition of organic materials, typically from plant life.
On the moon, we have loose unconsolidated rock material (dust, fragments, etc.) but this is not really soil– instead this sort of material is referred to as regolith.

Soil is important stuff!  Consider–

1. Soil is integral for agriculture, at both business and personal levels.  It is absolutely crucial in order to generate food for other plants, animals, and people!
2. Soil is a key part of the hydrologic cycle.  Soils help regulate the flow and quality of water.
3. Finally, did you know there are more organisms in just 1 tablespoon of soil than there are people on the planet? Soil is home to billions of different species, many of which are environmentally helpful and useful!

OK, let’s see how soil forms and why there are so many different types of soil.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe types and processes of weathering and erosion.
• Describe and compare typical soil profiles and basic soil types.
• Discuss the importance of soil conservation.