ESS361H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Bulk Density, Thermal Conductivity, Thermal Diffusivity
Document Summary
Lecture 3: introduction to soil physical properties: soil physical properties. Soil is defined as a complex mixture of mineral matter, organic matter and living organisms. Soil consists of 5 major components: mineral material (47. 5%) is inorganic, water (30. 0%) is inorganic (occupy pore space) iii. Air (20. 4%) is inorganic (occupy by n, o, co2) Organic substances: provides nutrients & effects water capacity. Inorganic substances: influences soil texture (occupies pore spaces, regulator of soil temperature) As content of organic matter increases, soil becomes darker in colour. Organic matter tends to have low strength, drains excess water, holds plant water, and is very chemically reactive. Humus is well decomposed matter formed in the top layer of soil immediately below accumulated plant litter. Essential for soil formation and recycling soil nutrients. Note: as content of organic matter increases, soil becomes darker in colour. Parent material: surface deposits undergoing weathering (texture, porosity, mineral content, etc. )
