What is soil

Soil is a complex mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, air, and organisms that forms the top layer of the Earth's crust. It is essential for plant growth and is home to a vast diversity of soil organisms that play important roles in nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning. Soil also acts as a filter for water and helps regulate the Earth's climate by storing carbon and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. Soil types can vary greatly depending on factors such as climate, vegetation, topography, and parent material.