What are the primary components of soil?

The primary components of soil include minerals, organic matter, water, and air. Each of these components plays a crucial role in determining soil health and its ability to support plant life.

Minerals originate from the weathering of rocks and provide essential nutrients that plants need to grow. Organic matter, primarily derived from decaying plant and animal materials, enriches the soil and improves its structure, aiding in water retention and nutrient availability. Water is vital for all living organisms and is involved in numerous soil processes, including nutrient uptake by plants. Air, which fills the spaces between soil particles, is essential for the respiration of plant roots and soil microorganisms.

While other options mention elements that are indeed significant aspects of soil health (like sand, silt, clay, and nutrients), they do not encompass the full composition of soil as effectively as the selected answer. This choice provides a complete overview of the foundational components that make up soil as a natural resource. Each component interrelates to support the ecological functions of soil in agriculture and the environment.