Soils: Classification, Factors & Formation processes - Rau's IASSoil formation, also known as pedogenesis

 Soils: Classification, Factors & Formation processes - Rau's IASSoil formation, also known as pedogenesis, is a slow process that occurs when rocks break down and organic material decays: 

Weathering

Rocks break down through physical, chemical, or biological processes: 

Physical weathering: Rocks break down due to mechanical action, such as abrasion, temperature changes, or frost. 

Chemical weathering: Rocks break down when their minerals react with water, air, or other chemicals. 

Biological weathering: Living things break down rocks, such as when burrowing animals help water and air get into rock, or plant roots grow into cracks. 

Decay of plant residues

Fungi and other organisms transform plant residues into humus, a stable soil organic matter. 

Mineral-organic complexes

Minerals and organic fractions are selectively transferred and complexed together. 

Soil horizons

The result of these processes is the development of layers, called soil horizons, which are distinguished by differences in color, structure, texture, and chemistry. 

The most important factors that influence soil formation are:

Parent material

Terrain

Climate

Aspect

Vegetation cover

Microorganisms in the soil

The age of the land surface 

The study of pedogenesis is important for understanding soil distribution patterns in both current and past geologic period