Learn how weathering of rock and the activities of organisms help in soil formation
Soil forms through the weathering of rock and the action of organisms on organic matter.
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Transcript
[Music in]
NARRATOR: The soil is the surface layer of Earth that results from the degradation of the basement rock. Far from being a sterile environment, the soil is crawling with life. According to estimates, one cubic meter of fertile soil contains one billion living organisms. Small mammals, worms, and insects dig tunnels that allow air to circulate deep in the ground.
Microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi decompose organic matter, including dead leaves. The minerals resulting from this decomposition feed the plants whose roots are in the soil. Because of the many exchanges that take place between this community of living beings and the environment, the soil can be considered a true ecosystem. Many factors linked to human activity can threaten the balance of this ecosystem, pollute it, or even destroy it.
[Music out]
NARRATOR: The soil is the surface layer of Earth that results from the degradation of the basement rock. Far from being a sterile environment, the soil is crawling with life. According to estimates, one cubic meter of fertile soil contains one billion living organisms. Small mammals, worms, and insects dig tunnels that allow air to circulate deep in the ground.
Microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi decompose organic matter, including dead leaves. The minerals resulting from this decomposition feed the plants whose roots are in the soil. Because of the many exchanges that take place between this community of living beings and the environment, the soil can be considered a true ecosystem. Many factors linked to human activity can threaten the balance of this ecosystem, pollute it, or even destroy it.
[Music out]