Question

Which of the following is not a property of sandy soil?

• A. Sandy soil is light.
• B. Sandy soil is well aerated.
• C. Sandy soil is dry.
• D. They are heavy as they hold more water.

Answer 1

The correct option is D

They are heavy as they hold more water.

The sizes of the particles in a soil have a very important influence on its properties. Sand particles are large. They cannot fit closely together, so there are large spaces between them. These spaces are filled with air and hence the sand is well aerated. Water can drain quickly through the spaces between the sand particles. So, sandy soils tend to be light, well aerated and rather dry. Clay particles, being much smaller, pack tightly together, hence leaving little space for air.