Question

Describe the main differences between a mineral soil and an organic soil.

Short answer

Mineral contents are more in mineral soil. Organic soil is rich in organic matters.

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 Introduction

Soil formation is a slow process and it takes many years to form from rocks, organic substances, and minerals. Soil has many horizons and the horizons are classified according to many factors and the composition of matter present in it such as; composition of organic matter, mineral content, and water holding capacity.

Step-2 Explanation

Mineral soils are the soils that are rich in various minerals and these are mostly used for cultivation purposes to grow crops. Mineral soil has a carbon content of less than 17%. Croplands are rich in mineral soils because to grow crops, the soil should be rich in mineral nutrients.

Organic soils are very rich in organic matter naturally. It contains more carbon in it (more than 17%). Organic soils are good for plants to protect them from microbes and pests. Organic soils can reduce the use of chemical pesticides.