Mada za sehemu hiiSoilMada 5
Soil is the top layer of the earth's surface. This is the upper layer of the rock that makes the earth's crust. Soil is a mixture of small rock particles and weathered minerals. It is also made up of the decayed remains of living things such as plants and animals. The decayed remains of living things are collectively known as organic matter.
Soil is composed of 5% organic matter, 25% water, 25% air, and 45% minerals. Organisms such as insects and worms live in the soil. The spaces between the soil particles are occupied by air and water. The ratio between air space and water in the soil varies depending on weather conditions. These variations depend on the temperature and water content at a particular area. The water in the soil increases as a result of rainfall and percolation from rivers.
Soil is important for various uses as follows:
- Soil provides support to plants.
- It preserves water to be used by plants and other living organisms.
- It preserves air for gaseous exchange by plant roots and other organisms.
- It preserves different types of nutrients to be used by plants and other organisms.
- It is used for making household appliances such as pots, jars, charcoal stoves, cups and ornaments.
- It is used for building houses and other structures.
- It also provides shelter for living organisms.
Soil has various characteristics that lead to its different uses. These characteristics include:
- Color
- Texture
- Structure
- Fertility
- Penetration of water
- Air
The knowledge on soil types helps to utilize the soil properly. There are three main types of soil: clay, loam and sandy.
- Clay soil: Clay soil is formed by very small particles of soil. It is formed after weathering of rocks for many years. In Tanzania, this type of soil is mainly found in Kigoma and Mwanza regions. Particles of this soil have a tendency to stick together. This property limits the penetration of water and air within its particles. During the rainy season, this situation causes water logging while in the dry season the soil becomes very hard. This makes it difficult for the clay soil to be utilized for agricultural activities. Clay soil is used for making various things such as pots, jars, cups, charcoal stoves, and ornaments.
- Loam soil: Loam soil is formed by a proper ratio of sand, clay and decayed organic matter. In Tanzania, loam soil is mainly found in Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Mbeya, Iringa, Njombe, and Ruvuma regions. Loam soil enables plants to grow easily, therefore, it is suitable for agriculture. This is because loam soil has the ability to preserve many nutrients, air and moisture.
- Sandy soil: Sandy soil is formed by relatively large soil particles. This soil is formed from disintegrated and weathered rocks such as limestone, granite, white shining stones, and sedimentary rocks. In Tanzania, this type of soil is mainly found in the coastal zone. It is mainly found in Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Pwani regions. Sandy soil allows quick passage of water through it. Therefore, it causes lack of water for plants especially during the dry season. In this type of soil, agricultural activities usually depend on irrigation and use of fertilizers. Sandy soil is also suitable for building activities such as making building blocks.
Mwalimu
Unasoma somo hili? Niulize nikuelezee chochote kilichomo.
Ingia ili kumuuliza Mwalimu wa AI wa Sonza kuhusu mada hii.
Ingia ili kuuliza