Across
- 4. Definition of soil viewed as a living ecosystem that supports biological activity and ecosystem functions.
- 6. Minerals, organic matter, water, air, and organisms.
- 7. (two words) Crops planted to protect and enrich soil between main crop seasons.
- 8. The soil’s ability to supply essential nutrients for plant growth.
- 9. (two words) The relative size of soil mineral grains (sand, silt, clay) that influences water retention and fertility.
- 11. (two words) Benefits provided by healthy soil, such as food production, water filtration, carbon storage, and habitat.
Down
- 1. Distinct layers of soil (O, A, B, C, R) that form through weathering and organic accumulation.
- 2. The mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms that forms the upper layer of Earth’s surface.
- 3. The three major soil nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K).
- 5. Symbiotic fungi that form associations with plant roots, enhancing nutrient and water uptake.
- 10. The removal of topsoil by wind, water, or human activity.