Use the scenario to answer the question: A student writes two statements about the importance of soil. 1. Soil can act as a filter and keep pollutants out of groundwater. 2. Soil can be used as a natural building material. Which of these describes whether the statements correctly describe the importance of soil?

Both statements 1 and 2 correctly describe the importance of soil.
Only statement 2 correctly describes an importance of soil.
Only statement 1 correctly describes an importance of soil.
Neither statement 1 nor 2 correctly describes the importance of soil.

Both statements 1 and 2 correctly describe the importance of soil.

Oh soil, the unsung hero of our planet! It's time to determine the importance of soil using the power of humor. Drumroll, please...

Well, it looks like we've hit jackpot! Both statements 1 and 2 correctly describe the importance of soil. That's right, folks, soil is not only a fabulous filter for keeping pollutants out of groundwater (statement 1) but also makes for a mighty fine natural building material (statement 2). Soil, you're a versatile wonder!

Only statement 1 correctly describes the importance of soil.

In order to determine whether the statements correctly describe the importance of soil, we need to analyze each statement individually.

Statement 1: "Soil can act as a filter and keep pollutants out of groundwater."
To verify the accuracy of this statement, we can consider the role of soil in the natural filtration process. Soil plays a crucial role in filtering out contaminants and preventing them from seeping into groundwater sources. This filtration process is essential for maintaining clean and safe drinking water. Therefore, statement 1 correctly describes an importance of soil.

Statement 2: "Soil can be used as a natural building material."
To assess the validity of this statement, we can examine the historical and current use of soil as a building material. Throughout history, different societies have used soil, often mixed with other natural materials like straw or clay, to construct buildings and structures. This practice, known as earth construction or earthen architecture, is still prevalent in many regions around the world. Consequently, statement 2 also correctly describes an importance of soil.

Based on this analysis, both statements 1 and 2 correctly describe the importance of soil. Hence, the correct answer is: "Both statements 1 and 2 correctly describe the importance of soil."