All Flashcards
Consequences of soil erosion?
Loss of fertility, sediment pollution, reduced water quality.
Cause and effect of over-farming and drought?
Massive soil erosion, dust storms (Dust Bowl).
Effect of deforestation on soil?
Increased soil erosion due to lack of root structure.
Effect of overgrazing on soil?
Compacts soil, reduces vegetation cover, increases erosion.
How does soil erosion affect soil fertility?
It removes the nutrient-rich topsoil layer, reducing the soil's ability to support plant growth.
How does soil erosion affect water quality?
It leads to sediment pollution, clouding the water and harming aquatic life, while also reducing the soil's ability to filter pollutants.
What were the environmental consequences of the Dust Bowl?
Massive dust storms, loss of topsoil, agricultural devastation, and displacement of people.
Define Parent Material.
Underlying rock that breaks down to form soil.
Define Weathering.
Breakdown of parent material into smaller pieces (physical/chemical).
Define Soil Horizon.
A distinct layer within a soil profile.
Define Humus.
Surface litter, decaying organic matter in the O horizon.
Define Topsoil.
Mixture of organic matter and minerals; the A horizon.
Define Eluviation.
Process of leaching nutrients from the E horizon.
Define Subsoil.
Zone of accumulation; the B horizon.
Define Soil Erosion.
Removal of topsoil by wind or water.
Define Sediment Pollution.
Pollution caused by eroded soil entering waterways.
Define Soil Degradation.
Loss of soil quality due to nutrient depletion or pollution.
What are the effects of soil erosion on soil fertility?
Loss of topsoil reduces nutrients needed for plant growth.
What are the effects of soil erosion on water quality?
Sediment pollution, reduced filtration, and increased pollutants.
What are the consequences of deforestation on soil?
Increased erosion due to lack of root structure and cover.
What are the consequences of overgrazing on soil?
Compaction, reduced vegetation cover, and increased erosion.
What was the effect of the Dust Bowl on agriculture?
Massive crop failures and economic hardship.
What is the effect of intense rainfall on soil?
Increased soil erosion.