Soil Properties (key terms)

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Across
  1. 1. Percentage of soil volume made up of pore space.
  2. 3. Downward movement of water through soil layers.
  3. 4. Clumps of soil particles; improve structure and water retention.
  4. 6. Large pores that drain freely and allow air movement; poor water retention.
  5. 8. Compression of soil reducing pore space and limiting root development.
  6. 9. Describes soil by particle size; affects drainage and workability.
  7. 11. Soil type with balanced proportions of sand, silt, and clay; ideal for plant growth.
  8. 12. How well soil removes excess water; influenced by texture and slope.
  9. 14. Measure of soil acidity or alkalinity; affects nutrient availability.
  10. 16. Small pores that hold water too tightly for plant uptake; help resist compaction.
  11. 17. Entry of water into soil from the surface.
  12. 18. Medium pores that retain water available to plants.
Down
  1. 2. Arrangement of soil particles into aggregates; affects porosity and root growth.
  2. 5. A distinct layer in the soil profile, such as topsoil (A) or subsoil (B).
  3. 7. Mass of dry soil per volume; high values indicate compaction and poor root penetration (two words, no space).
  4. 10. Upward movement of water through pores; supports plant hydration.
  5. 11. Nutrient loss due to water movement through soil.
  6. 13. Air-filled pore space in soil; essential for root and microbial respiration; reduced by compaction.
  7. 15. Stable organic matter from decomposition; improves structure, nutrient retention, and water holding.