12 marks
Outline the meaning of the term horizon in the context of soils and soil profiles.
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Introduction to Soil Systems (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS): SL)
Exam Questions
40 mins10 questions
2a1 mark
Outline one common input of soil systems.
2b1 mark
Outline one common output of soil systems.
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32 marks
Illuviation is a transfer process that occurs in soil systems.
Outline this process.
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45 marks
Complete the table below by writing either low, medium or high in each empty box.
Soil Properties Summary Table
Property | Sand | Loam | Clay |
Water infiltration rate |
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Water holding capacity |
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Aeration |
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Potential to hold organic matter |
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Ease of working (ease with which soil can be manipulated) |
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1a2 marks
State two examples of transformation processes occurring within soil systems.
1b2 marks
State two examples of transfer processes occurring within soil systems.
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2a1 mark
The figure below shows how soil textures are classified by the proportions of sand, silt and clay present.
The table below shows the composition of two soil samples, Soil A and Soil B. Soil A is classified as clay.
Soil | Clay / % | Silt / % | Sand / % |
A | 60 | 30 | 10 |
B | 20 | 40 | 40 |
With reference to the figure and the table, determine the classification of Soil B.
2b3 marks
Deduce, giving reasons, whether Soil A or Soil B would be more suitable for growth of crops.
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33 marks
Outline what the O horizon represents in a soil profile.
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4a2 marks
The figure below is a graph showing the water content of three different soils (X, Y and Z) as rainfall increases.
Describe the trend in water content for Soil X as rainfall increases.
4b2 marks
Complete the table below by identifying which of the three soils X, Y or Z match the soil types listed.
Soil type | Soil X, Soil Y or Soil Z |
Loam |
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Sand |
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Clay |
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17 marks
Explain how a soil system can be considered to be an ecosystem.
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27 marks
Explain the importance of soil organisms in terrestrial ecosystems.
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