Soil Profile: The Collective Name of Layers of Soil

The correct answer is option 'B', which is soil profile. A soil profile refers to the vertical arrangement of different layers or horizons of soil in a specific area. These layers are formed over time due to various geological and environmental factors. Let's explore the concept of a soil profile in detail.

Formation of Soil Profile
- Soil is formed through the process of weathering, which involves the breakdown of rocks and minerals into smaller particles.
- Weathering is primarily caused by physical forces like wind, water, and temperature changes, as well as chemical processes such as oxidation and hydrolysis.
- Over time, as weathering continues, organic matter, minerals, and nutrients accumulate to form distinct layers or horizons within the soil.
- The formation of soil horizons is influenced by factors like climate, parent material, topography, organisms, and time.

Layers of Soil Profile
A typical soil profile consists of several layers, each with its own distinct characteristics. These layers are commonly referred to as horizons and are labeled as follows:

1. O Horizon (Organic Layer):
- This is the topmost layer of the soil profile and consists of decomposed organic material, such as fallen leaves, twigs, and dead organisms.
- The O horizon is rich in organic matter and provides nutrients for plant growth.
- It is typically dark in color and has a spongy texture.

2. A Horizon (Topsoil):
- The A horizon is located below the O horizon and is also known as topsoil.
- It is a crucial layer for plant growth as it contains a significant amount of organic matter, minerals, and nutrients.
- The A horizon is usually darker than the layers below it and has a crumbly texture.

3. E Horizon (Eluviation Layer):
- The E horizon is found below the A horizon and is characterized by the leaching or removal of minerals and nutrients by water.
- This layer is commonly referred to as the eluviation layer, as it is responsible for the downward movement of dissolved materials.
- The E horizon is typically light in color and has a sandy or loamy texture.

4. B Horizon (Subsoil):
- The B horizon is situated beneath the E horizon and is often referred to as subsoil.
- It accumulates minerals and nutrients that are leached from the layers above.
- The B horizon is usually denser and harder than the layers above it, with a higher concentration of clay and minerals.

5. C Horizon (Parent Material):
- The C horizon is the deepest layer of the soil profile and consists of partially weathered or unweathered parent material.
- This layer serves as the source of minerals and nutrients for the layers above.
- The C horizon is often composed of larger rock fragments and has a similar composition to the underlying bedrock.

Conclusion
In summary, the collective name for the layers of soil is the soil profile. The soil profile consists of distinct horizons, including the O horizon (organic layer), A horizon (topsoil), E horizon (eluviation layer), B horizon (subsoil), and C horizon (parent material). Each layer has its own unique characteristics and plays a crucial

Soil profile