Rocks and Soil
≈ 18 minRocks are hard, natural solids that make up the land. Over very long periods, wind, water, heat and cold slowly break rocks into smaller and smaller pieces. This breaking-down of rock is called weathering.
The tiny broken pieces of rock mix with dead plant and animal material to form soil. Soil often lies in layers, with dark topsoil on top — the layer where most plants grow.
Different soils behave differently:
- Sandy soil feels gritty and lets water drain away quickly.
- Clay soil feels sticky and holds a lot of water.
- Loam is a rich mix of both, with plant material — the best soil for growing crops.
Over many years, wind, water, heat and cold break big rocks into tiny pieces. This breaking-down of rock is called ______.
Soil is formed from...
Which soil is usually best for growing crops because it holds water and plant material well?
A farmer digs a hole and finds 15 cm of dark topsoil lying on top of 25 cm of clay. How deep is the hole in total, in centimetres?