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Chapter 4: Problem 7

What is the major factor distinguishing the \(\mathrm{O}\) and \(\mathrm{A}\) soil horizons?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The major factor distinguishing the O and A soil horizons is the composition of their contents. The O horizon is primarily composed of organic matter, while the A horizon contains a mixture of mineral particles along with organic matter.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding O and A Soil Horizons

Soil horizons are distinct layers of soil that have specific characteristics. The O horizon, also known as the organic horizon, consists mainly of organic matter such as decomposing plant and animal remains. This horizon forms the uppermost layer on the soil surface. The A horizon, often called the topsoil, is the layer beneath the O horizon. It is made up of a mixture of mineral particles like sand, silt, and clay, as well as organic matter from the decomposed materials in the O horizon.
02

The Major Factor Distinguishing the O and A Soil Horizons

The major factor that distinguishes the O and A soil horizons is the composition of their contents. The O horizon is primarily composed of organic matter such as decomposing plant and animal remains, whereas the A horizon contains a mixture of mineral particles like sand, silt, and clay along with organic matter from decomposed materials in the O horizon. In summary, the O horizon is mainly organic, while the A horizon is a mix of mineral and organic content.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Assume that two forests have the same quantity of leaves (leaf area index). In one forest, however, the leaves are oriented horizontally (parallel to the forest floor). In the other forest, the leaves are positioned at an angle of 60 degrees. How would the availability of light at the forest floor differ for these two forests at noon? In which forest would the leaves at the bottom of the canopy (lower in the tree) receive more light at mid-morning?

What soil-forming process is dominant in the wet tropical regions? How does this process influence the availability of nutrients to plant roots in the A horizon?

What is the general shape of the curve that describes the vertical attenuation of light through the plant canopy based on Beer's law? Why is it not a straight line (linear)?

Why is the process of salinization more prevalent in arid areas? How does irrigation increase the process of salinization in agricultural areas?

How does pH influence the base saturation of a soil?
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