Which soil horizon often contains the highest concentration of clay?

Study for the Iowa Soil Judging Test. Master soil concepts with interactive questions and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

The B horizon is commonly known as the zone of accumulation, where materials leached from the overlying horizons, particularly the A horizon, tend to accumulate. This leaching process often includes the movement of clay particles downward through the soil profile. As a result, the B horizon often exhibits significant clay accumulation, leading to higher clay concentrations compared to the other horizons.

In contrast, the O horizon is composed mainly of organic matter, such as decomposed leaves and other plant materials, and typically does not contain clay. The A horizon, while it may contain some clay, primarily consists of a mix of organic material and minerals, but usually does not have the high concentration found in the B horizon. The C horizon consists of weathered parent material and may contain varying amounts of clay, but it is not as developed or concentrated as that found in the B horizon. Thus, the B horizon is correctly identified as the horizon that often contains the highest concentration of clay.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy