What is the primary purpose of the soil?

The primary purpose of soil is to support plant growth by providing a medium for plants to anchor their roots, access water and nutrients, and exchange gases with the atmosphere. Soil also acts as a habitat for a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and worms, which contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. Additionally, soil plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, filtering and purifying water, and storing and releasing carbon and other greenhouse gases.