Chapter 18: Problem 22

What former Inceptisols formed a new soil order in 1998 ? Describe these soils as to location, nature, and formation processes. Why do you think they were separated into their own order?

Short Answer

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Gelisols, formed from former Inceptisols in 1998, are typically found in cold climates especially around the Arctic and subarctic regions. They are identified by their permafrost layer and evidence of cryoturbation. Such unique characteristics made it necessary for them to be separated into their own order as they require specific attention and management due to their unique properties, behaviours, and challenges related to climate change.

Step by step solution

Identify the new soil order

The new soil order formed from former Inceptisols in 1998 is the Gelisols. This is a fact-based answer that must be memorized or referenced from a reliable source in the field of soil science.

Describe the location of Gelisols

Gelisols are typically found in very cold climates, especially around the polar regions such as the Arctic and subarctic, where the land is mostly covered in permafrost.

Describe the nature and formation processes of Gelisols

Gelisols are generally characterized by permafrost within 100 cm of the soil surface and evidences of cryoturbation (frost churning), both of which are key processes in their formation. Permafrost is a thick subsurface layer of soil that remains below freezing point for more than two years, while cryoturbation refers to the mixing of materials from various horizons in the soil due to freeze-thaw cycles.

Reason why Gelisols were separated into their own order

The unique nature and formation processes of Gelisols distinguished them from Inceptisols, necessitating their classification into their own order. Unlike other soils, the presence of permafrost within Gelisols leads to specific properties, behaviours and challenges – such as active layer dynamics, unique ecosystem services and issues related to climate change. Also, it deserves separate attention for its specific management requirements.

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What former Inceptisols formed a new soil order in 1998 ? Describe these soils as to location, nature, and formation processes. Why do you think they were separated into their own order?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify the new soil order

Describe the location of Gelisols

Describe the nature and formation processes of Gelisols

Reason why Gelisols were separated into their own order

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