Virtual Lab #7, Question 4

Fragment of a discussion from Course talk:APBI200

For question #4 in the lab assignment #7, we expect 2 very short answers - 1st in which you will identify the diagnostic horizon(s) and 2nd in which you will identify the soil order. We do not ask for any elaboration in that question.
In some soil orders there are 2 (or more diagnostic horizons) since there are 2 (or more dominant soil forming processes). This is true for real-life situations and for some of the soil profiles listed in your question #4.
Let me give you an example of a soil profile with its horizons shown from the soil surface to parent material, to illustrate soil with couple of diagnostic horizons. Pls note that this is a different example than those mentioned in the question #4:
Ah
Bg1
Bg1
Cg
Both Bg1 and Bg2 are diagnostic horizons, for this soil that belongs to Gleysolic order.
So, one 1st needs to identify the diagnostic horizon(s), which imply the type of dominant soil forming process, and then one can identify the order. This also means that you guys have to learn what are diagnostic horizon(s) for each of the 10 orders and also what are the soil forming processes represented by those diagnostic horizons.

MajaKrzic (talk)20:20, 28 March 2020

That is much clearer, thank you so much!

MadelineWoodley (talk)20:49, 28 March 2020

And thank you for asking for clarification, since this type of question WILL BE on the final exam.
And I hope others are paying attention to what is discussed here ;-)

MajaKrzic (talk)20:58, 28 March 2020