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Soils

Easier - Soil is the loose top layer of our planet's crust. It is dirt or earth in which plant life can grow.

Harder - Soil covers a major portion of the earth's land surface. It is an important natural resource that either directly or indirectly supports most of the planet's life. Life here depends upon soil for food. Plants are rooted in soil and obtain needed nutrients there. Animals get their nutrients from plants or from other animals that eat plants. Many animals make their homes or are sheltered in the soil. Microbes in the soil cause the breakdown and decay of dead organisms, a process that in turn adds more nutrients to the soil.

Soil is a mixture of mineral and organic materials plus air and water. The contents of soil varies in different locations and is constantly changing. There are many different kinds and types of soils. Each has certain characteristics including a specific color and composition. Different kinds of soils support the growth of different types of plants and also determine how well that plant life grows. Soil is formed slowly, but can be easily destroyed. Therefore, soil conservation is important for continued support of life.

Rocks & Soils

Rocks and Soils Be a rock tester and find out the properties of different types of rocks.
Pebble, Sand and Silt
Rocks for Kids This site gives lots of information about rocks.
The Stupid Page of Rocks
The Difference Between Rocks and Minerals
Minerals Beautiful pictures of minerals - check it out!
Volcanoes Visit volcanoes around the world!!
Earth's Crust Use cool graphics to learn about the earth's crust.
Soils Find out some interesting information about soil!
Soiled Again! Information on soil types
Erosion Learn about the different types of erosion.
Difference Between Dirt and Soil
Worm Asks Soil Questions
Rocks, Rocks, Rocks