QUESTION: Which one of the following is not a factor of soil formation?
A Time
B Soil texture
C Organic matter
D Inorganic matter
ANSWER: Soil texture
| Factor | Description | Role in Soil Formation |
| Relief | The topography or landscape features of an area, including elevation, slope, and drainage. | · Steep slopes can lead to erosion, while flat areas accumulate sediment.
· Influences water movement and soil moisture. |
| Time | The duration over which soil-forming processes interact to develop mature soil characteristics. | · Longer periods allow for the accumulation of organic matter, weathering and soil horizon formation. |
| Parent Rock | The original geological material from which soil forms, influencing mineral composition. | · Determines the initial mineral composition of the soil. |
| Flora | Plant life in an area, which contributes to organic matter, root activity and soil stability. | · Plants contribute to organic material through litter and root decay.
· Roots help to bind soil particles. |
| Fauna | Animal life within the soil ecosystem, influencing soil structure, aeration and nutrient cycling. | · Soil fauna create burrows that improve soil aeration.
· Fauna contribute to decomposition and nutrient availability. |
| Microorganisms | Microscopic organisms such as bacteria and fungi play key roles in nutrient cycling and decay process. | · Microorganisms break down organic matter, releasing nutrients.
· Microbes help in nutrient transformation. |