Elements of the Nature and Properties of Soils

A fundamental knowledge of soil science is not only intriguing it is also a prerequisite to meeting the many natural resource challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. This text addresses all of the basic principles of soil science, emphasizing the soil as a natural resource and highlighting the many interactions between the soil and other components of forest, range, agricultural, wetland, and constructed ecosystems. “Elements of the Nature and Properties of Soils, Second Edition,” is suitable as the core text in an introductory soil science course at the undergraduate level, providing authoritative and up-to-date coverage that is essential for a solid foundation in the study of soils. It is also an excellent resource for anyone interested in the study of soils. Following are only a few of the topics covered: formation of soils soil classification soil architecture and physical properties soil water soil and the hydrologic cycle soil aeration and temperature the colloidal fraction: seat of soil chemical and physical activity soil acidity, alkalinity, and salinity organisms and ecology of the soil soil organic matter nitrogen and sulfur economy of soil soil phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients practical nutrient management soil erosion and its control