What is the order of particles that give texture to soil
The order of particles that give texture to soil, from largest to smallest, is as follows:
1. Gravel: Gravel particles are larger than 2 millimeters in diameter and are generally visible to the naked eye. They do not easily adhere to each other and provide good drainage in the soil.
2. Sand: Sand particles range in size from 0.05 to 2 millimeters in diameter. They are larger than silt and clay particles, giving soil a gritty texture. Sand particles do not hold water well and provide moderate drainage.
3. Silt: Silt particles are between 0.002 to 0.05 millimeters in diameter. They are smoother and finer than sand particles, giving soil a silky feel. Silt particles do not drain water as quickly as sand but are better at retaining water.
4. Clay: Clay particles are smaller than 0.002 millimeters in diameter and are not visible to the naked eye. They are the smallest soil particles and are responsible for the sticky and cohesive texture of clay soil. Clay particles have high water-holding capacity but also drain poorly.