Download The soil forming factors

The soil forming factors
climate controls
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the soil water balance
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types and amount of plant cover
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rates and types of weathering
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rates of plant decomposition and chemical processes, and
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soil formation at all scales (slopes to zonal soils)
vegetation
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is the organic component of soil, and
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influences soil formation, in conjunction with climate, at all scales
topography and drainage
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locally affect soil formation by influencing the soil water balance, rates of erosion and
vegetation cover.
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a series of soils along a topographic profile (hill side), from level summits to steep
slopes and rapid drainage near the crest to more gentle slopes and less rapid (or even
impeded) drainage near the foot of the slope and in the valley bottom.
parent material
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is the surficial deposit within which the soil forms. At the earth's surface, the parent
material is altered to form the A & B horizons. Below the A & B horizon’s, in the C
horizon, where the parent material is unaltered and retains its original properties. The
parent material accounts for most of the physical (e.g., texture) and chemical
characteristics.
time
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refers to the duration of soil formation. It is a very important factor, because plant
decomposition and weathering are slow, almost continuous processes resulting in
distinct soil horizons over hundreds or thousands of years.