1.4 Biosphere Flashcards
(3 cards)
Podzol- Formation Process
Low temperature- slow decomposition
Coniferous needles + cones produce acidic humus (mor)
High precipitation leads to leaching
Downward movement of aluminium + iron oxides forms iron pan
Iron pan impedes drainage, waterlogging it
Limited soil biota, well defined horizons
On steep lopes, encourages leaching
Shallow roots, limited absorption of deep leached materials
Brown Earth- Formation Process
High temperature- fast decomposition
Abundant leaf litter produce mildly acidic humus (mull)
Precipitation exceeds evaporation, leads to leaching
South-facing + sunshine, increase decomposition rate
Soft parent material weathers quickly, produces thick soil
Soil biota, indistinct horizons
Gentle slopes, reduced erosion, thicker soil
Long roots, absorb nutrients from lower layers
Gley- Formation Process
Low temperature- slow decomposition
Limited vegetation produce acidic humus (mor)
Heavy precipitation causes waterlogging
Waterlogged soil creates anaerobic conditions
Iron turns from red/brown to blue (oxygen extracted by microorganisms)
Limited soil biota, well defined horizons
Flat surface reduces drainage
Shallow roots, limited absorption of deep leached materials
