What is the composition of soil?

Soil is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that is composed of various materials. The correct answer highlights that soil consists of a mixture of mineral particles and organic material. This composition is essential because mineral particles, derived from the weathering of rocks, provide structure and nutrients to support plant growth. Organic materials, which include decomposed plant and animal matter, contribute to the fertility of the soil by enhancing nutrient availability and improving soil structure.

The combination of these two components creates a habitat for a diverse array of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and earthworms, all of which play a critical role in nutrient cycling and soil health. Together, minerals and organic content make soil a vital resource for ecosystems and agriculture.

In contrast, the incorrect options suggest compositions that are either exclusively organic or inorganic. These alternatives fail to recognize the crucial relationship between mineral and organic components that characterizes healthy soil. Understanding soil's mixed composition is foundational for studying environmental systems, agriculture, and ecology.