Mechanical weathering processes result in ___
the decomposition of primary materials
the hydrolysis of materials through frost action
the oxidation of iron and manganese compounds
the disintegration of rocks due to differential expansion of materials
Which of the following is NOT considered one of the five major factors influencing soil formation?
valence state
living organisms
climate
native parent material
topography
Glacial till is a term used to describe parent materials that __
were laid down in the bottom of former glacial lakes
contain a heterogeneous mixture of mineral debris dropped by receding glaciers
are sorted by rapidly flowing melt waters
were transported by water gushing from glacial fronts
were transported by high winds during glacial periods
In which of the following horizons has the process of illuviation most likely occurred?
A horizon
B horizon
C horizon
O horizon
E horizon
Silicate clay accumulation is most likely in the ___
Secondary minerals are most prominent in the __ fraction of soils
organic
clay
sand
silt
The presence of rocks such as shale and sandstone indicate the existence of ___
highly weathered soils
iron-rich materials
a high water table
ancient seas
old mountain ranges
The mixed angular gravel, rock, and soil found at the foot of a slope is typical of what type of parent material?
glacial
lacustrine
eolian
fluvial
colluvial
Alluvial fans are usually characterized by ____ soils
poorly drained
nearly level
sandy and gravelly
clay textured
Igneous rocks are formed when molten magma cools and solidifies.
Sandstones are good examples of metamorphic rock.
Secondary minerals are recrystallized products of the chemical breakdown and/or alteration of primary minerals.
Chemical weathering is accelerated by water, oxygen, and organic and inorganic acids moving down and through the regolith.