Which of the following factors is primarily responsible for soil formation?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Weathering.
Weathering is the natural process by which rocks and minerals are broken down into smaller particles over time due to exposure to environmental factors. It plays a crucial role in soil formation and landscape shaping. There are three main types of weathering:
- Physical (Mechanical) Weathering: Breakdown of rocks without changing their chemical composition, caused by temperature changes, freeze-thaw cycles, wind, and water.
- Chemical Weathering: Involves chemical reactions (like oxidation, hydrolysis, and carbonation) that alter the rock’s minerals, making them more stable in surface conditions.
- Biological Weathering: Caused by living organisms, such as plant roots growing into cracks or microbes producing acids.
Weathering is essential for creating fertile soil and enabling plant growth.