What is the difference between soil profile and soil horizon?
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Jan 8
The terms "soil profile" and "soil horizon" are related to each other and describe different aspects of the soil.
Soil Profile: A soil profile refers to the vertical arrangement of different soil layers or horizons from the surface down to the parent material. It is a cross-sectional view of the soil, showing the various layers and their characteristics. A soil profile provides information about the soil's composition, structure, and properties, which can be useful for understanding its fertility, drainage, and suitability for different uses.
Soil Horizon: A soil horizon, on the other hand, refers to a specific layer within the soil profile that has distinct characteristics and properties. Horizons are formed due to the processes of soil formation, such as weathering, leaching, and accumulation of organic matter. Each horizon has unique properties, including color, texture, structure, organic matter content, and mineral composition. The soil horizons are labeled using letters, with the topmost horizon being labeled as "O" for organic matter-rich layers, followed by "A," "B," "C," and sometimes "R" for bedrock.
In summary, a soil profile is the overall vertical arrangement of different soil horizons, while a soil horizon is a specific layer within the soil profile that has distinct properties and characteristics.