Physical and Chemical Properties of Soil Lab Report AP ART 234

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Pre-Lab Questions 1. The soil particle that seems to have the largest influence in determining the properties of a class of soil based on the soil texture triangle is the clay particle. Clay soils c... onsist of microscopic particles that clump together and retain water. Clay has a large surface area that is chemically very active, and it has the ability to bind and store both organic and mineral nutrients. 2. Percentage of Sand: 6mm/20mm = 30% Percentage of Silt: 8mm/20mm = 40% Percentage of Clay: 6mm/20mm = 30% Soil Class: Clay Loam 3. The pH of soil is a very important aspect of soil fertility because it indicates whether the soil is acidic or basic. The pH of soil influences the solubility and availability of soil nutrients, the movement of toxic heavy metals into the groundwater, and the viability of essential microorganisms. The next important aspect of soil fertility are nitrates. Nitrates are an essential component of proteins because plants grown in rich soil provide higher yields and are richer in protein, which result in the plants being more nutritious. Not only does it help provide higher yields, but it helps to produce healthy leaf growth and green leaves. The last important aspect of soil fertility is phosphate. Phosphate is important for root growth and aids in the production of fruit and flowers [Show More]

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