Soil: What's Under Your Feet?

What You'll Learn

Soil forms slowly from weathered rock mixed with decomposed organic matter. Different layers (horizons) form with topsoil on top, subsoil below, and bedrock at the bottom.

Key Words

metamorphic
sedimentary
fossil

Materials Needed

clay
water
plastic tray

Safety First

Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Soil forms slowly from weathered rock mixed with decomposed organic matter. Different layers (horizons) form with topsoil on top, subsoil below, and bedrock at the bottom.

Step 2 — Do

Repeat the experiment two more times for accuracy.

Step 3 — Observe

Observe what happens and describe it in detail.

Step 4 — Record

Record your observations in your science journal.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is a mineral?