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Chapter 18: Problem 15

Define an epipedon and a diagnostic subrurface borizon. Give a simple example of each.

Short Answer

Expert verified
An epipedon is the surface horizon of a soil profile which has properties distinct from the horizons below due to weathering and natural processes. An example is the mollic epipedon, a dark, organic-rich surface horizon. A diagnostic subsurface borizon, or B horizon, accumulates materials like clay leached downward from the above layers. An example is the argillic horizon which has significant clay accumulation.

Step by step solution

01

Define Epipedon

An epipedon is a layer of soil at the surface (the topsoil) that has specific diagnostic characteristics such as color, texture, structure, or other properties. Epipedons are the uppermost horizon in the soil profile, and should meet certain criteria to be considered as such. It serves an important role in the soil classification system. An example of an epipedon is the mollic epipedon, a thick, dark, organic-rich surface horizon commonly found in prairie soils.
02

Define Diagnostic Subrurface Borizon

A diagnostic subsurface borizon, also known as a ‘B horizon’, is a layer of soil that lies underneath the topsoil. This horizon accumulates materials such as clay, iron, or organic matter that have leached from the above horizons. This is where most of the mineral nutrients are held. For a layer to be considered a diagnostic subsurface horizon, it must meet specific criteria regarding its development and properties. An example of a diagnostic subsurface horizon is the argillic horizon, which displays significant clay accumulation and is often seen in forest soils.

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