AP Environmental Science / Unit 4: Earth Systems and Resources
4.3 Soil Composition and Properties
Notes
Soil texture: sand (largest, drains fast), silt, clay (smallest, holds water and nutrients, drains slowly).
- Loam is a balanced mix, best for most plants.
- Properties: porosity, permeability, water-holding capacity, pH, fertility.
Practice
Which soil particle holds the most water?
Tiny particles, tiny pores.
Water drains fastest through:
Large pores.
The best soil for most crops is:
Balanced drainage and nutrients.
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