- 1. Pedology is the study of soil, focusing on its formation, classification, and mapping. It provides insights into the physical, chemical, biological, and mineralogical properties of soil, as well as how these properties influence plant growth and ecosystem dynamics. Pedologists examine soil profiles to understand the processes that shape different soil types over time and under various environmental conditions. By studying pedology, scientists and land managers can better manage soil resources for optimum agricultural productivity, environmental conservation, and sustainable land use practices.
What is pedology?
A) Study of rocks
B) Study of plants
C) Study of animals
D) Study of soil
- 2. Which soil pH value indicates neutral soil?
A) 7
B) 5.5
C) Greater than 7
D) Less than 7
- 3. Which of the following is a primary soil macro-nutrient essential for plant growth?
A) Calcium
B) Nitrogen
C) Magnesium
D) Zinc
- 4. What is the term for compacted layers in soil that restrict root growth and water movement?
A) Histosol
B) Hardpan
C) A horizon
D) Loam
- 5. What is the term for the uppermost layer of soil?
A) Subsoil
B) Parent material
C) Bedrock
D) Topsoil
- 6. What does the geological Principle of Uniformitarianism imply about pedogenic processes?
A) Pedogenic processes are unique to modern times and did not exist in the past.
B) The principle does not apply to soil formation.
C) Pedogenic processes change drastically over short geological periods.
D) Pedogenic processes active today have been operating for long periods, back to when organisms appeared on land.
- 7. Which sub-discipline of pedology focuses on quantitative characterization techniques for mapping soil properties?
A) Edaphology
B) Soil geomorphology
C) Paleopedology
D) Pedometrics
- 8. Which soil texture has the smallest particle size?
A) Gravel
B) Sand
C) Silt
D) Clay
- 9. Which of the following affects soil structure negatively?
A) Aeration
B) Compaction
C) Biological activity
D) Organic matter
- 10. What is the most influential factor in the formation of soils?
A) Topography
B) Biota
C) Climate
D) Parent material
- 11. Which of the following is NOT one of the five major external factors of soil formation?
A) Climate
B) Organisms
C) Relief
D) Time
- 12. Which soil animal is known for its role in improving soil aeration?
A) Spider
B) Ant
C) Earthworm
D) Beetle
- 13. Which branch of soil science is more agronomically oriented?
A) Pedology
B) Soil geomorphology
C) Pedometrics
D) Edaphology
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