What are the three layers of soil called?

Study for the Ontario Grade 9 Geography Exam. Prepare with interactive quizzes and multiple choice questions; each question includes insightful hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The correct identification of the three layers of soil is best represented by the terms Topsoil, Subsoil, and Parent material. These layers describe the composition and characteristics of soil as it develops from the surface downwards.

Topsoil is the uppermost layer, rich in organic material and nutrients, making it the most fertile and crucial for plant growth. It contains a high concentration of microorganisms which play a vital role in the nutrient cycle. Below this, the Subsoil layer provides less organic matter and is denser, often retaining water and minerals. Finally, the Parent material, which is the least altered layer, consists of weathered rock and mineral material that contributes to the soil's overall composition.

In contrast, the other choices do not correctly describe the soil layers as per standard soil science terminology. The use of A, B, C horizons is a more generalized nomenclature rather than specific terms that define what each layer comprises. The surface, middle, and deep layer descriptors do not align with the accepted classification of soil layers. Similarly, identifying soil solely by its particle size (clay, silt, and sand layers) addresses the textural components of soil rather than its structural layers. Thus, the most accurate representation of soil layers is indeed Topsoil

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