Compare sandy soils and clay soils under the following headings:
(i) Drainage - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2016
Question a
Compare sandy soils and clay soils under the following headings:
(i) Drainage.
(ii) Fertility.
(iii) Organic matter content.
(iv) Soil temperature.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Compare sandy soils and clay soils under the following headings:
(i) Drainage - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question a - 2016
Step 1
(i) Drainage.
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Answer
Sandy soils are characterized by excellent drainage due to their larger particle size and loose texture, allowing water to pass through quickly. In contrast, clay soils are poorly drained because of their small particle size, which leads to compacted soil that retains water.
Step 2
(ii) Fertility.
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Answer
Sandy soils tend to have low fertility since they do not hold nutrients well, making them less suitable for most crops. On the other hand, clay soils exhibit high fertility as they can retain nutrients effectively, supporting a broader range of plant growth.
Step 3
(iii) Organic matter content.
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Answer
Sandy soils typically have low organic matter content because the rapid drainage leads to less retention of decomposed materials. In contrast, clay soils have higher organic matter content, benefiting from their ability to hold moisture and nutrients.
Step 4
(iv) Soil temperature.
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Answer
Sandy soils usually maintain a high soil temperature due to quick drainage and direct sunlight exposure. Conversely, clay soils tend to have lower soil temperatures as they retain moisture, which keeps them cooler.
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