Question

Which factors affect soil quality?

a. chemical composition

b. history of the soil

c. presence of living organisms and topography

d. all of the above

Short answer

The correct answer is optiond. all of the above

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 Introduction 

Water and nutrients are absorbed through roots from the soil. Soil is the source of water as well as minerals and nutrients. Water and nutrients are important factors that contribute to plant growth and development. The quality of soil on which the plant grows is also very important.

Step-2 Explanation

Soil is divided into four major horizons that are O, A, B, and C horizons respectively. Different layers contain different minerals and organic as well as inorganic matters. Various minerals are also present in the soil that are essential for plant growth. Living organisms like microbes also help in increasing the fertility of the soil. The topography of the soil is mainly the surface quality of the soil that affects plant growth and water runoffs. History of the soil mainly focuses on the previous crops that were cultivated which may provide nutrition to present crops. All these factors affect soil quality.

Step-3 Final answer

Therefore, the correct answer is option ‘d’.

Soil quality depends upon the factors like chemical composition, topography, history of soil as well as the living organisms in the soil.