Question

Soil organisms usually stay __________ the soil.

A.) close to the surface of
B.) deep below the surface of
C.) About half stay close to the surface and the other half stay deep below the surface of the soil.
D.) spread uniformly throughout
E.) near the middle of

Answer 1

Soil organisms typically remain close to the soil's surface where the environment is most conducive to their survival and biological activity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Soil organisms usually stay close to the surface of the soil. The reason behind this is that the majority of the soil's biological activity takes place in the upper layers of the soil, particularly in the O horizon and the A horizon. These layers are rich in organic matter and nutrients, which are crucial for the survival and function of soil organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. The presence of these organisms is essential for maintaining the health of the ecosystem by facilitating nutrient cycling and enhancing soil structure.

The soil profile is divided into several layers, with the topmost layer containing fresh organic matter and being the primary zone for microbial processes and plant production. Deeper layers such as the B and C horizons contain less organic matter and are less favorable for the vast majority of soil organisms. Environmental conditions such as moisture and temperature are also more stable near the surface, which provides a more hospitable environment for these organisms.