Question

Which of the following represents the correct order of increasing soil particle size?

a) Clay, silt, sand
b) Sand, silt, clay
c) Silt, clay, sand
d) Sand, clay, silt
e) Clay, sand, silt

Answer 1

The correct order of increasing soil particle size is sand, silt, clay. Hence, the correct answer is option B.

Step-by-step explanation:

Soil particle size is a crucial factor influencing soil properties and fertility. In the sequence of sand, silt, and clay, sand particles are the largest, with diameters ranging from 0.05 to 2.0 millimeters.

Silt particles are smaller, ranging from 0.002 to 0.05 millimeters, while clay particles are the smallest, measuring less than 0.002 millimeters. This gradation impacts soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.

Sandy soils drain quickly but may lack fertility, while clayey soils retain water but may have poor drainage. Loamy soils, a balanced mix, offer optimal conditions for plant growth due to their intermediate particle sizes.