Soil is a naturally occurring mixture of minerals, organic matter, gases, liquids, and organisms that forms the upper layer of the Earth's crust. It is the foundation for plant growth and supports the growth of various organisms. Soil is typically composed of minerals such as sand, silt, and clay, as well as organic matter derived from decaying plants and animals. It also contains air and water in the spaces between particles, which are necessary for the exchange of gases and the movement of nutrients. Soil can vary in composition, fertility, and structure depending on factors such as climate, vegetation, topography, and geological processes.
