The Evolution and Classification of Soils

The following is an attempt to summarise the fundamental facts of the formation of soils, to consider the close connection between climate and soils in greater detail, to indicate how soils are related to one another and so lead up to a classification of soils types, a system of soils, which on a true scientific basis. All types of soils may be arranged in these three groups: Climate Soils Zones and Regions. The soils have peculiarities in common which display by the climate. Local Soils. Within the climatic soil zones the local soils form sub-division which display varying properties determined by special influences (parent rock, water conductivity, texture, situation, etc.) Soils influenced by organisms. The first two groups are alone suitable for the preparation of soil maps, since these are lasting influences to which the soil is subjected. Whereas other branches of scientific investigation have been independent for a long time, soil science has still to fight for recognition. Its heaviest burden is its present dependence on agricultural chemistry, which, primarily an applied sciences, has to subserve practical purposes.