Soil analysis is the process of evaluating the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. Soil analysis is important for a variety of reasons, including agricultural productivity, environmental management, and land-use planning.
The physical properties of soil that are typically analyzed include texture, structure, and bulk density. Texture refers to the size distribution of mineral particles in the soil, while structure refers to the arrangement of these particles. Bulk density is the mass of soil per unit volume.
Chemical properties that are typically analyzed include soil pH, nutrient levels (such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), and the presence of contaminants such as heavy metals. Soil pH is a measure of the soil's acidity or alkalinity, and can affect nutrient availability to plants.
Biological properties that may be analyzed include soil organic matter content and microbial activity. Soil organic matter is composed of decomposed plant and animal material, and can affect soil fertility and water-holding capacity. Microbial activity refers to the presence and activity of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in the soil, which can play important roles in nutrient cycling and other soil processes.
