Soil Minerals
Mineral in the soil is one of the part of soil composition including humus, living organisms, water and air. Minerals are essential substance found in soil. It is the largest component of the soil, making up almost 40% to 45% of the total components. Soil is rich in minerals such as iron, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sulphur etc. Minerals constitute the major portion of soil. Minerals are necessary for plant growth and development. The minerals present in soil are absorbed by plants through their roots.
For example: Nitrate is an essential mineral in the soil as it helps in the synthesis of proteins. Magnesium is an important component of chlorophyll. The mineral soil is very supportive of plant growth. It also helps the soil highly rich in nutrients and make highly fertile which gives better crop result and increases economic development.
Mineral Riches in the Soil
Soil minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic substances found in soil, such as sand, clay, and various metal oxides. Minerals in the soil are essential for plant growth and soil fertility. The outermost layer of the earth, known as crust, is covered with a mixture of organic and inorganic material called soil.
Soil serves as a medium for the growth of plants as it is rich in minerals and useful living organisms. The mineral composition of the soil is about 45-50%, organic matter constitutes about 1-5% of it whereas the remaining space is filled with air and water. Soil minerals examples include quartz, feldspar, mica, iron oxides, and calcium carbonate. In this article, we will cover minerals in the soil, their types, uses, and more.
Table of Content
- What is Soil?
- Soil Minerals
- How Minerals Form in Soil?
- Soil Minerals Types
- Minerals Present in Soil
- Soil Minerals and Their Uses
- Conclusion – Soil Minerals
- FAQs on Soil Minerals