Soil can be defined as the mixture of organic matter or humus, minerals, gases, liquids, and microorganisms that together support life.

 The outermost layer of earth that is composed of soil is called Pedosphere. The word  ‘pedon‘ is a Greek word that means “ground” or “earth.

4 major functions of soil, 1) medium for plant growth 2) water storage 3) modifier of Earth’s atmosphere 4) as a habitat for organisms

Soil provides essential metals for plant growth like  Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosphorus and less common minerals like  Calcium, Magnesium, and Sulfur.

Soil is an important factor in our ecosystem, and it contains both biotic and abiotic factors. Biotic factors include insects, plants, and animals.

 Silicate minerals are the most common minerals found in the earth’s crusts. The most abundant silicates are feldspars.

In the year 1953, The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) set up an All India Soil Survey Committee. 

 ICAR has classified the Indian soils into Eight major groups on the basis of their nature, genesis, color, composition, and location.

Alluvial or Alluviam soil is the most important and most widespread soil group in India.It supports uninterrupted crop growth.

Alluvial or Alluviam soil is the most important and most widespread soil group in India.It supports uninterrupted crop growth.

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