Pedosphere
The pedosphere is Earth’s soil layer, where mineral material, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms interact at the surface.
Soil formation: The development of soil through mineral weathering, organic inputs, transport, and biological activity. These processes create and continually transform the pedosphere.
Soil: A dynamic mixture of mineral particles, organic matter, water, air, and organisms that supports terrestrial life. Soil is the material expression of the pedosphere.
Soil fertility: The capacity of soil to supply nutrients and suitable conditions for plant growth. Fertility determines how well the pedosphere supports vegetation.
Biosphere: The parts of Earth where life exists, including organisms and the environments they inhabit. Roots, animals, and microbes make the biosphere an intimate part of soil.
Desertification: Land degradation in drylands that reduces biological productivity and can turn fertile land into desert-like conditions. Soil degradation can contribute to desertification and loss of ecosystem function.
Soil horizon: A distinct layer within a soil profile, differentiated by properties such as color, texture, and composition. Horizons show how processes organize the pedosphere vertically.
Soil organic matter: Carbon-based material in soil derived from living organisms at different stages of decomposition. It connects living biomass to soil structure and nutrient storage.
Agronomy: The science and practice of producing crops through management of plants, soils, and resources. Crop production depends on managing soil conditions and nutrient cycles.
Hydrosphere: All water on Earth, including water in oceans, ice, groundwater, rivers, and the atmosphere. Soil stores and filters water exchanged with the hydrosphere.
Soil salinity: The accumulation of soluble salts in soil at levels that can hinder plant growth. Salinity changes soil chemistry and can make land less productive.