One distinguishing characteristics of ferruginous soils is the?
Answer Details
One distinguishing characteristic of ferruginous soils is the occurrence of iron concretions in the B horizon. Ferruginous soils are soils that are rich in iron oxides and have a distinctive reddish-brown color. They are found in areas with a tropical or subtropical climate and are usually formed from the weathering of iron-rich rocks. The B horizon is the layer of soil below the A horizon, and it is characterized by the accumulation of minerals and organic matter that have been transported down from the surface. In ferruginous soils, iron oxides accumulate in the B horizon, forming iron concretions or nodules. These concretions are hard, dense, and often spherical or elongated in shape. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. The occurrence of these iron concretions is a distinguishing characteristic of ferruginous soils and is used to identify them in the field.