PRINCIPLES OF SOIL SCIENCE LABORATORY

Soil your Undies: Exploration and Discussion

Note: Faster decomposition rate = more biological activity

Answer the following questions:

1. How does the composition of the soil affect the decomposition of cotton underwear?

Soil affect decomposition of cooton underwear because of the microorganism that living
in the soil like: bacteria, fnngi, protozoa and etc. in the other point microorganism
chewing organic matter that’s why cotton underwear decompose.

2. What role do soil microorganisms play in the breakdown of the buried fabric?
Microorganisms play an important role in soil; they help to remove organic matter and
make fertiliser available for plants from rocks and air, all of which contributes to the
stability of soils. Soil bacteria are also vital to the healthy development of plants as they
help in nutrient cycling, break down herbicides and reduce bacterial plant diseases where
there is a large number of good microorganisms.
3. Are there noticeable differences in decomposition rates between different types of soil
(e.g., sandy, loamy, clayey)?
4. How does the pH of the soil influence the degradation of the buried underwear?
In view of the fact that a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil that can make
microbial activity and enzymes function.
5. Are there specific soil conditions that promote or inhibit microbial activity in the
degradation process?
Yes, the soil conditions have a significant effect on the promotion or hindrance of
microbial activity during organic decomposition such as that of clothes made from
cotton.
6. What impact does moisture content in the soil have on the decomposition of cotton
fabric?

It is important to note that the decomposition process of cotton fabric can be affected by
the moisture content in the soil and this can be linked to microbial activity. For instance,
a favorable level of moisture ensures that the cotton fiber-degrading microorganisms
thrive. Conversely, it hampers them when the soil is too dry or too wet. Furthermore,
moisture also affects chemical reactions that degrade materials. Moisture levels should be
kept optimal for faster decay of cotton fabrics on soils.

7. Can the presence of certain plants or vegetation in the soil affect the rate of underwear
decomposition?

The existence of specific plants or vegetation in the ground can not directly impact the
speed of undergarment breakdown. Plants contribute to the soil surroundings in numerous
manners, influencing factors for example small organism action and nutrient rotation.
The existence of flora or greenery in the ground can sway the speed of undergarment
breakdown.

8. Are there any correlations between temperature variations and the speed of fabric
breakdown in different seasons?
Yes, temperature variations across seasons can influence the speed of public material
breakdown. Typically, elevated temperatures tend to hasten the processes of things
falling apart, whereas cooler temperatures are able to delay such changes.

9. How does the depth at which the underwear is buried influence decomposition rates?
The depth at which underwear is buried can affect the rate of decomposition. Because it
is exposed to outside factors like temperature fluctuations and microbial activity, the
material may disintegrate more quickly if buried shallowly. On the other hand, because
there is less exposure to these substances, a deeper burial might cause the decomposition
process to proceed more slowly. However, additional factors that are critical to the
process overall are the composition and moisture content of the soil.
10. Can the microbial diversity in the soil be correlated with the efficiency of fabric
degradation?
It is true that the variety of microbes in soil can be connected with the effectiveness of
fabric deterioration. Tiny living things, like bacteria and molds, play a significant part in
breaking down natural materials, which includes fabrics. The assortment and numbers of
microbial kinds in the dirt can impact the breakdown procedure in numerous routes.
11. What role do earthworms and other soil-dwelling organisms play in the
decomposition process?
Earthworms dig into the soil to create channels that improve aeration and water
infiltration. They also consume soil and organic materials, producing castings, or worm
excrement, that is enhanced with organic material. Larger organic materials can be
broken down into tiny pieces by this physical activity, which promotes microbial
breakdown.
12. Is there a threshold level of organic matter in the soil that accelerates or hinders the
breakdown of cotton fabric?

Yes, the organic matter being there in the soil can impact the failure of cotton fabric.
Increased organic matter content frequently fosters a more varied microbial community,
which accelerates the pace of decomposition. Excessive levels, however, may produce
circumstances that prevent decomposition. It's a delicate balance, and important variables
that affect the degradation of cotton fabric include microbial activity and the carbon-to-
nitrogen ratio of organic matter.

13. How do soil nutrient levels change during the course of the experiment, and what
impact does this have on fabric decomposition?
Based on our experiment involving fabric decomposition Over time, the soil's nutrient
levels can be altered. They release organic compounds into the soil as fabrics decompose,
which may affect its nutrient content. Organic matter may be contributed to soil by the
breakdown of fabrics, in particular natural fibres such as cotton. This process might
improve the availability of nutrients to plants and microorganismes, which can have a
significant impact on soil nutrient balance.

14. Are there any unexpected factors influencing the experiment, such as human activities
or external environmental conditions?
The location of my burial undies is good but the unexpected factor is the emvironmental
condition like a high temperature that may cause of dryness of the soil. That can affect
the low of microorganism activity.
15. Can the results of this experiment provide insights into sustainable agricultural
practices or soil management techniques?
Yes, because this kind of experiment can provide techniques tin every farmers.
Understanding decomposition processes can provide mostly soil health knowledge. It’s a
part for sustainable agriculture and effective soil management.

16. Attach sample pictures of the buried fabric.