1. Introduction to Soil

2. SOIL
Geologic definition: Loose surface of the earth as distinguished from solid bedrock; support of plant life not required.

3. Soil out of place and unable to serve it’s purpose
Dirt
Soil out of place and unable to serve it’s purpose

4. Foundation for roads and structures Home to plants and animals
Importance of Soil
Foundation for roads and structures
Home to plants and animals
Grow things in it
Contains and filters water
Helps dispose of waste
Basis for recreation areas

5. Soils Perform Several Vital Functions
Sustaining plant and animal life below and above the surface
Regulating and partitioning water and solute flow
Filtering, buffering, degrading, immobilizing, and detoxifying
Storing and cycling nutrients
Providing support to structures

6. Mixture of mineral matter, organic matter, water, and air.
Properties of soil
SOIL

7. SOIL COMPONENTS
Air 25%
Mineral Matter 45%
Water 25%
Organic Matter 5%

8. 3 Fractions of Mineral Matter
Sand
Silt
Clay

10. Soil Color Indicator of different soil types
Indicator of certain physical and chemical characteristics
Due to humus content and chemical nature of the iron compounds present in the soil

11. Want to learn more about soil?
Visit NRCS’ website at the National Soil Survey Center at