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Soils are formed through a combination of physical and chemical weathering processes that break down rocks into small mineral particles and modify these minerals through dissolution and transformation. Decomposition of organic material from plants and animals also plays a vital role, mixing with minerals to create fertile soil. Over time, these processes lead to the development of distinct layers known as soil horizons. Understanding soil formation reveals crucial insights into ecosystem health and agricultural productivity, essential for sustainable land management.
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How Soils Form Image: T. Loynachan Soils-2-1
Physical weathering breaks rocks into small mineral particles that accumulate on the Earth’s surface. Images: Martin Miller, NRCS Soils-2-2
Chemical weathering dissolves and changes minerals that have accumulated on the Earth’s surface. Images: National Cooperative Soil Survey, University of Nebraska Soils-2-3
Decomposing organic material from plants and animals mixes with accumulated soil minerals. Images: NRCS, Soil Classifiers of Michigan Soils-2-4
Accumulated soil materials contain voids filled with air or water. Image: T. Loynachan Soils-2-5
Continued physical and chemical changes over hundreds to thousands of years produce layers called soil horizons. Image: National Cooperative Soil Survey Soils-2-6
The Formation of Soils Image: T. Loynachan
