Final answer:
Fertilizer restores the organic material in soil, which is essential for plant growth and nutrient cycles. It mainly impacts the organic matter component, one of the key elements in soil that contributes to soil formation and health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking which factors that affect soil formation are restored by fertilizer. Out of the options provided, the correct answer is B) Organic material. Fertilizers are typically used to add nutrients to soil, which mainly rejuvenates the organic material component of soil. It is the organic material in soil, such as humus, which improves the structure of the soil and provides the essential water and minerals for plant growth.
While soil formation is affected by factors like climate, organisms, relief, parent material, and time, fertilizers primarily impact the organic matter of the soil. Organic matter is a critical component because it supports biodiversity and contributes to nutrient cycles by breaking down organic matter into compounds that plants require for growth.
Applying fertilizer increases the concentration of organic nutrients in the soil, which can enhance plant growth and lead to soil development over time. However, it is important to use fertilizers judiciously to maintain a healthy soil ecosystem.