The chemical composition of soil is mostly influenced by
Answer Details
The chemical composition of soil is mostly influenced by its parent material. Parent material is the underlying geological material, such as rock or sediment, that has been weathered and broken down over time to form soil.
The chemical composition of the parent material determines the initial chemical composition of the soil, including the types and amounts of minerals present. For example, if the parent material is a type of granite, the soil will likely have a high concentration of minerals such as feldspar and quartz.
Other factors such as climate, time, and topography can also influence the chemical composition of soil, but these factors typically have a more indirect or secondary influence. For example, climate can affect the rate of weathering and nutrient cycling, which can in turn affect the chemical composition of soil. Time can also influence the chemical composition of soil as weathering and biological activity continue to break down the parent material and alter the soil over time. Topography, or the physical features of the landscape, can influence the distribution of soil types and the movement of nutrients and minerals within the soil.
Overall, the chemical composition of soil is a complex interplay of multiple factors, but the underlying parent material is the most significant determinant of its initial chemical composition.