Genesis of soils | Biogeography | Principle Of Geography

 

Biogeography

Principle Of Geography

Geography Complete Study Material

(Paper - I)

Genesis of Soils

             The thin layer of grainy substance covering the surface of the earth is called soil. It is closely linked to land. Landforms determine the type of soil. Soil is made up of organic matter, minerals and weathered rocks found on the earth. This happens through the process of weathering. The right mix of minerals and organic matter make the soil fertile.

              

Factors of Soil Formation 

            The major factors of soil formation are the nature of the parent rock and climatic factors. Other factors are the topography, role of organic material and time taken for the composition of soil formation. All these differ from place to place. 

Factors affecting soil formation 

• Parent Rock Determines colour, texture, chemical properties mineral, content, permeability
• Relief  Altitude and slope, determine accumulation of soil 
• Climate Temperature, Rainfall influence rate of weathering and humus formation
• Flora, Fauna and Micro organism Affect the rate of humus formation
• Time Determines thickness of soil profile