Question

If different soil samples are taken in different funnels and water is poured, as shown in the diagram, identify the correct labels of the soil samples based on their water holding capacity.

• A. A - sand, B - loamy, C- clay
• B. A- loamy, B- sand, C- clay
• C. A- loamy, B- clay, C- sand
• D. A- clay , B- loamy, C- sand

Answer 1

The correct option is A A - sand, B - loamy, C- clay

Soil is a mixture of minerals, humus, air and water that provides nutrients and supports the plants and hence other living organisms. To cultivate crops, it is necessary to know the soil texture, water holding capacity and fertility of the soil. Soil water holding capacity simply refers to the amount of water that a given soil can hold for crop use.

Soil texture and organic matters are the key components that determine soil water holding capacity. Clay and loamy soil have smaller soil particles and larger surface area and hence can hold higher water content as compared to sand which has larger soil particles with smaller surface area which makes them hold less water. Sequence of soil types according to increasing particle size is ---- clay< loamy< sand.

In the picture, the highest amount of water collected is in jar A, so the water holding capacity of this is least, hence it will be sandy soil, followed by loamy and clay in jar B and C respectively. Water content in jar B and C are less because they have smaller particles and higher surface area, so they have a higher water holding capacity.