Fatima khodor

DR.Sohad Khazen

The soil.
Abstract
Soil is a non-renewable dynamic natural resource that is essential to
life.

Why do we need soil?

Soil carries out a range of functions and services without which human
life would not be possible. It provides an environment for plants
(including food crops and timber wood) to grow in, by anchoring roots
and storing nutrients. It filters and cleans our water and helps prevent
natural hazards such as flooding.

Introduction:

Soil is the loose surface material that covers most land. It consists of
inorganic particles and organic matter. Soil provides the structural
support to plants used in agriculture and is also their source of water
and nutrients. Soils vary greatly in their chemical and physical
properties. Water movement, water quality, land use, and
vegetation productivity all have relationships with soil.
Soil forms the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust, and mineral
soil consists of a mixture of organic matter, minerals, gases and
water. Soil develops gradually over time, as weathering of the
bedrock on the Earth’s surface combines with decaying organic
matter. Soil typically develops in layers (also known as horizons)
which are distinct from one another in colour and texture.