1. Erosion, Deposition and Soil

2. The movement of weathered material
EROSION
The movement of weathered material
by:
wind,
water,
ice or
gravity.

3. placement of Material – soil deposited down
Deposition-
placement of Material – soil deposited down

4. big objects settle out first

5. denser particles settle first

6. due to weathering processes rocks break down into soil
THE ROCK CYCLE
The rock cycle is a concept that describes the transitions through geologic time among the three main rock types: sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous.
due to weathering processes rocks break down into soil

7. Soil Profile In a cross-section of soil, various zones are formed.
Soil profile is somewhat like the soil's fingerprint, and it will differ from other soil based on factors like its color, texture, structure and thickness, as well as its chemical composition based on the types of weathered rocks, climate (temps & precip).

8. O Horizon: Organic Layer / Humus
It consists of leaf litter and other organic material lying on the surface of the soil.

9. A Horizon: Topsoil
This layer is usually dark, rich, loose and crumbly due to plant roots weathering rock with varying amounts of organic matter.

10. A Horizon: Topsoil Most productive layer of soil.
Conservation efforts are focused here!

11. B Horizon: Subsoils
Subsoils are usually lighter in color, dense, low organic matter, and less nutrients. Develops as rainwater washes clay and minerals from A horizon to B

12. C Horizon: Transition
This layer of transition is almost completely void of organic matter and is made up of partially weathered parent material. Forms as bedrock weathers and breaks up into soil particles.

13. Bedrock
Below the C horizon the unweathered bedrock will be found.

15. Types of Soil Sand Silt Clay Large soil particles and pore spaces
Settle out first
Water drains very quickly
Silt
Very fine “sand” (feels like flour)
Holds water better than sand
Feels slick and smooth when water added
Clay
Smallest soil grains
Smallest pore spaces – water and air does not circulate
Impermeable (water does not drain well if at all)
Plant roots have problems penetrating

17. Reading a Soil Triangle

18. Porosity –vs- permeability
Porosity – the amount of space with in a rock or between particles.
Permeability – the ability that water can move through a rock or particles.

19. Fertility of Soil
the ability of a soil to sustain agricultural plant growth
i.e. to provide plant habitat and result in sustained and consistent yields of high quality
In order for plants to be healthy and produce demanded yields the soil must have adequate nutrients
Major required nutrients include:
Nitrogen
Phosphorus
Potassium
Less required
Sulfur
Calcium
Iron, Etc..

20. As you can see the richer the soil the more plants it can support