Which of the following best describes the composition of soil?
A) Soil is primarily mineral matter (approximately 72%), but also consists of organic matter (10%), and water (18%).
B) Soil consists of approximately 45% organic matter, 50% mineral matter, and 5% water and/or air.
C) Soil is composed of about 45% mineral matter, 5% organic matter, and 50% pore space containing air and water.
D) Soil includes pebbles, gravel, cobbles, and a varying combination of sands, silts, and clays.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Soil is composed of mineral matter, organic matter, water, and air. However, the exact percentages vary depending on the type of soil. Generally, soil is made up of about 45% mineral matter (such as sand, silt, and clay), 50% pore space containing air and water, and 5% organic matter (such as dead plants and animals). This makes option C the most accurate description of soil composition.

Which of the Following Best Describes the Composition of Soil