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The direction a slope faces can affect the physical and biotic features of the slope, known as a slope effect. The term aspect can also be used to describe a related distinct concept: the horizontal alignment of a coastline. Here, the aspect is the direction which the coastline is facing towards the sea.
One possible way of assessing soil thermal properties is the analysis of soil temperature variations versus depth Fourier's law, Q = − λ d T / d z {\displaystyle Q=-\lambda dT/dz\,} where Q is heat flux or rate of heat transfer per unit area J·m −2 ∙s −1 or W·m −2 , λ is thermal conductivity W·m −1 ∙K −1 ; dT / dz is the ...
There are various factors that affect soil temperature, such as water content, [84] soil color, [85] and relief (slope, orientation, and elevation), [86] and soil cover (shading and insulation), in addition to air temperature. [87] The color of the ground cover and its insulating properties have a strong influence on soil temperature. [88]
Soil quality reflects how well a soil performs the functions of maintaining biodiversity and productivity, partitioning water and solute flow, filtering and buffering, nutrient cycling, and providing support for plants and other structures. Soil management has a major impact on soil quality. Soil quality relates to soil functions. Unlike water ...
Soil texture is the analysis and classification of the particle size distribution in soil. The relative amounts of sand, silt, and clay particles determine a soil's texture, which affects the appearance, feel and chemical properties of the soil. [12] Soil texture-by-feel method
Soil formation, also known as pedogenesis, is the process of soil genesis as regulated by the effects of place, environment, and history. Biogeochemical processes act to both create and destroy order ( anisotropy ) within soils.
A soil scientist examining horizons within a soil profile. Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource on the surface of the Earth including soil formation, classification and mapping; physical, chemical, biological, and fertility properties of soils; and these properties in relation to the use and management of soils.
The reduction of weathering rate with thickening of soil is related to the exponential decrease of temperature amplitude with increasing depth below the soil surface, and also the exponential decrease in average water penetration (for freely-drained soils). Parameters P 0 and k are related to the climate and type of parent material.