Which soil horizon is characterized by organic matter?

Study for the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology exam. Access flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and understand key geologic principles. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which soil horizon is characterized by organic matter?

Explanation:
Organic matter is most abundant at the soil surface, where plant and animal debris accumulates and decomposes. This surface layer is the O horizon, rich in litter and humus. The A horizon is the upper mineral soil mixed with some organic material but not dominated by it; the B horizon is the subsoil where minerals and clays accumulate with little organic matter; the C horizon is weathered parent material with very little organic content. So the horizon characterized by organic matter is the O horizon.

Organic matter is most abundant at the soil surface, where plant and animal debris accumulates and decomposes. This surface layer is the O horizon, rich in litter and humus. The A horizon is the upper mineral soil mixed with some organic material but not dominated by it; the B horizon is the subsoil where minerals and clays accumulate with little organic matter; the C horizon is weathered parent material with very little organic content. So the horizon characterized by organic matter is the O horizon.

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