Soil Lab Quiz

What are the two main types of processes involved in soil formation?

• Chemical and physical processes.

• Biological and astronomical processes.

• Thermal and magnetic processes.

• Electrical and nuclear processes.

How does chemical weathering differ from physical weathering in soil formation?

• Chemical weathering changes the chemical composition of rocks; physical weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces without changing their composition.

• Chemical weathering only occurs in deserts; physical weathering only occurs in rainforests.

• Chemical weathering makes rocks larger; physical weathering makes rocks dissolve.

• Chemical weathering is caused by wind; physical weathering is caused by water.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Why is soil sampling important before conducting laboratory analysis?

• It ensures accurate representation of soil properties for testing.

• It reduces the cost of laboratory equipment.

• It eliminates the need for laboratory technicians.

• It guarantees immediate results without analysis.

What role does organic matter play in the development of soil?

• It improves soil structure, fertility, and water retention.

• It increases soil acidity and reduces plant growth.

• It causes soil erosion and decreases nutrient content.

• It prevents water absorption and compacts the soil.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

What is cation exchange capacity (CEC), and why is it important in soil science?

• CEC measures soil's ability to hold and exchange nutrients, affecting fertility.

• CEC is the process by which soil loses all its nutrients to water runoff.

• CEC refers to the soil's ability to retain water only, not nutrients.

• CEC is a measure of soil acidity and pH levels.

Which soil property would you test to determine if the soil is saline?

• pH

• Texture

• Electrical conductivity

• Bulk density

What are some tools or instruments used in soil analysis mentioned in the modules?

• pH meter, EC meter, soil moisture sensors, sieves.

• Microscope, Bunsen burner, test tubes, pipettes.

• Thermometer, barometer, rain gauge, anemometer.

• Stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, otoscope, reflex hammer.

Gravimetric soil water content refers to which of the following, and how is it measured?

• The ratio of the mass of water to the mass of dry soil, measured by drying a soil sample and weighing it before and after.

• The percentage of water in soil measured using a moisture meter.

• The volume of water per unit volume of soil, measured by a volumetric flask.

• The electrical conductivity of soil, measured using a probe.

How does soil compaction affect water infiltration?

• Compaction reduces pore space, slowing infiltration.

• Compaction increases pore space, speeding up infiltration.

• Compaction has no effect on water infiltration.

• Compaction allows water to drain more quickly.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

What is the significance of measuring soil bulk density in relation to water movement?

• It indicates soil porosity and affects water retention and movement.

• It determines the soil color and texture.

• It measures the nutrient content of the soil.

• It shows the presence of microorganisms in the soil.