Imagine that a soil is 85% composed of weathered sandstone. Over time, a river flowing over the bedrock deposits sand and a very small amount of clay. By using the soil textural triangle, scientists have decided that the soil is mostly likely
loamy sand
loamy sand.
Imagine that a soil is 85% composed of weathered sandstone. Over time, a river flowing over the bedrock deposits sand and a very small amount of clay. By using the soil textural triangle, scientists have decided that the soil is mostly likely
a sandy loam soil.
To determine the texture of the soil, scientists use the soil textural triangle, which is a graphical representation that relates the proportions of sand, silt, and clay in a soil sample.
Given that the soil is 85% composed of weathered sandstone, we can assume a high sand content in the soil. We also know that a river flowing over the bedrock deposits sand and a small amount of clay.
To find out the likely texture of the soil, we can consult the soil textural triangle. The triangle is divided into three main regions - sand, silt, and clay - with varying proportions of each component.
First, find the sand region on the triangle. Since the soil is primarily composed of weathered sandstone, it is safe to assume that it falls within the sand region.
Next, determine the clay content. Even though a very small amount of clay is deposited by the river, it is still present in the soil. Therefore, move slightly towards the right on the triangle, indicating the presence of clay in the soil.
Lastly, assess the silt content. Based on the given information, we do not have any specific data about the silt content in the soil. However, since we know that the soil is composed mostly of sand and a small amount of clay, it can be inferred that the silt content is likely to be minimal. Thus, the position on the triangle would remain closer to the sand region and closer to the bottom.
Considering these factors, a soil composed of 85% weathered sandstone and some clay, with minimal silt content, would most likely be classified as a sandy loam soil.