Which soil type typically has high susceptibility to erosion?

Prepare for the Nutrient Management Consultant Exam with targeted quizzes. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each enriched with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

The soil type that typically has high susceptibility to erosion is fine textured soil. Fine textured soils, which are composed primarily of clay and silt particles, have a smaller particle size and thus tend to be more cohesive than coarser soils. However, they are also more easily washed away when saturated or disturbed, especially on slopes, because their fine particles can be suspended in water more readily.

In contrast to fine textured soils, medium textured soils, which generally contain a balance of sand, silt, and clay, exhibit better structure and increased porosity. This makes them less prone to erosion compared to finer soils because they allow for better water infiltration and do not become as easily destabilized or washed away.

Coarse textured soils, primarily composed of sand, have larger particles that create larger spaces between them, enhancing drainage and making them less susceptible to surface runoff and erosion. Pebbly soils also provide similar conditions due to their larger aggregate size, which helps maintain soil structure and stability.

Understanding the susceptibility of various soil types to erosion is crucial for effective land management and conservation practices, as well as for planning agricultural and development activities.

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