Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if it is not. 1. Soil can be fine and sticky near deserts, lakes, and oceans. 2. Lost soil can easily be replaced. 3. The different types of soil also differ in their ability to hold water. 4. Loam is a very fertile soil and it is best for planting. 5. The soil found in different places is usually a combination of one or two types of soil.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Answers:
- TRUE
- FALSE
- TRUE
- TRUE
- TRUE
Explanation (300 words):
Soil is one of the most important natural resources because it supports plant life and provides the foundation for agriculture. There are various types of soil, and each has different physical and chemical properties that affect plant growth.
Statement 1 is TRUE. Soil near deserts, lakes, and oceans often has fine and sticky particles. These soils are rich in silt and clay. Clay soils have very small particles that feel sticky when wet, while silt soils feel smooth and can be carried easily by wind or water. These fine particles often settle in low-lying areas like riverbanks, lake beds, and coastal zones.
Statement 2 is FALSE. Once soil is lost due to erosion or degradation, it takes hundreds or even thousands of years to form again. Natural soil formation is a slow process that involves the weathering of rocks and the accumulation of organic matter. Therefore, lost soil cannot be easily replaced within a human lifetime, which is why soil conservation is crucial.
Statement 3 is TRUE. Different soil types—sand, silt, clay, and loam—vary in their ability to retain water. Sandy soil drains quickly and holds little moisture, while clay retains a lot of water but drains poorly. Loam, which is a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay, has good water-holding capacity and drainage, making it ideal for plant growth.
Statement 4 is TRUE. Loam is considered the most fertile soil because it combines the beneficial properties of sand (good drainage), silt (nutrient retention), and clay (water retention). It is rich in organic matter and nutrients, making it ideal for gardening and agriculture.
Statement 5 is TRUE. Soil in most areas is rarely pure sand, clay, or silt. Instead, it is usually a mixture of two or more types. This combination determines the soil’s texture, fertility, and suitability for different uses.
