Soil Profile

Soil profile refers to the vertical arrangement of soil layers or horizons, from the surface down to the parent material. It is a three-dimensional representation of soil layers that can be observed through soil pits, auger holes, or soil cores. Soil profile provides information about the soil's physical, chemical, and biological properties, which are essential for crop production, land use planning, and environmental management.

Horizons of Soil

Soil profile is composed of different soil horizons, which are distinct layers that have unique characteristics and properties. There are five major horizons of soil, namely:

1. O Horizon: This horizon consists of organic matter, such as decomposing plant material, leaves, and twigs. It is usually dark in color and has a spongy texture.

2. A Horizon: This horizon is also known as the topsoil, which is the uppermost layer of soil that contains a high concentration of organic matter, nutrients, and microorganisms. It is usually dark in color and has a loose, crumbly texture.

3. B Horizon: This horizon is also known as the subsoil, which is located below the topsoil and contains less organic matter and more minerals, such as clay, sand, and silt. It is usually lighter in color and has a denser texture.

4. C Horizon: This horizon is also known as the parent material, which is the underlying layer of soil that has not undergone significant weathering or soil formation. It is usually composed of rocks, gravel, and sand.

5. R Horizon: This horizon is also known as the bedrock, which is the solid layer of rock that underlies all soil layers. It is usually composed of igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rocks.

Details of Horizons

Each horizon of soil has unique properties and characteristics that affect its function and suitability for different land uses. The O horizon is important for nutrient cycling and soil structure, as it provides organic matter that supports microbial activity and water-holding capacity. The A horizon is important for plant growth, as it contains the highest concentration of nutrients and a favorable soil structure for root penetration and water infiltration. The B horizon is important for water storage and nutrient cycling, as it acts as a reservoir for nutrients that are leached from the topsoil and provides a stable base for plant growth. The C horizon is important for soil formation, as it provides a source of minerals and nutrients that are weathered and transported to the upper soil layers. The R horizon is important for soil stability and geological processes, as it provides a solid foundation for landforms and geological features.

The vertical sections of soil showing different layers of soil is called soil profile.the different horizons are A- horizon which is also called topsoil.next is B horizon which is also called sub soil and the next is C horizon also called bedrock are the different horizons of soil..!!