Soil Properties (key terms)

1. Percentage of soil volume made up of pore space.
3. Downward movement of water through soil layers.
4. Clumps of soil particles; improve structure and water retention.
6. Large pores that drain freely and allow air movement; poor water retention.
8. Compression of soil reducing pore space and limiting root development.
9. Describes soil by particle size; affects drainage and workability.
11. Soil type with balanced proportions of sand, silt, and clay; ideal for plant growth.
12. How well soil removes excess water; influenced by texture and slope.
14. Measure of soil acidity or alkalinity; affects nutrient availability.
16. Small pores that hold water too tightly for plant uptake; help resist compaction.
17. Entry of water into soil from the surface.
18. Medium pores that retain water available to plants.

2. Arrangement of soil particles into aggregates; affects porosity and root growth.
5. A distinct layer in the soil profile, such as topsoil (A) or subsoil (B).
7. Mass of dry soil per volume; high values indicate compaction and poor root penetration (two words, no space).
10. Upward movement of water through pores; supports plant hydration.
11. Nutrient loss due to water movement through soil.
13. Air-filled pore space in soil; essential for root and microbial respiration; reduced by compaction.
15. Stable organic matter from decomposition; improves structure, nutrient retention, and water holding.