2.3.2 (CLORPT)

CLimate * Temperature controls the rate at which rocks freeze, thaw, weather, and release nutrients into the soil * Precipitation controls the rate at which nutrients are leached (drained) deeper into the soil

Organisms ● Decomposers release enzymes that breakdown rocks and recycle the nutrients in organic matter ● Broken down organic matter in the soil is called humus ● Worms make channels through the soil that can help roots grow and water and nutrients move

Relief (topography) * Relief describes the shape of the earth’s surface, such as mountains * Soils more exposed to winds can erode easily

Parent material * Parent material describes the rocks in the area that determine the soil type * Determines soil textures (silt, sand, clay)

Time * Older soils have more differences in color, structure, and texture. They accumulate more minerals and more form organisms symbiotic relationships • This creates a more complex soil profile