Introduction

• Soil forms through weathering of rocks and organic matter decomposition.
• The regolith (unconsolidated layer above bedrock) varies in thickness and composition.
• The solum (A, E, B horizons) supports plant growth with humus and clay from decomposed minerals.
• Pedons (small soil units) combine to form polypedons and soil individuals.
• Weathering (destructive) and synthesis (constructive) processes create distinct soil horizons.

Soil Composition:

Air: 20–30%

Water: 20–30%

Minerals: 45%

Organic Matter: 5%

Soil serves as a natural laboratory with diverse organisms like bacteria, fungi, and plant roots altering its structure over time.