For some soils, other properties need to be described. This chapter does not discuss every possible soil property. Examples are the length of time that cracks remain open, the patterns of soil temperature and moisture, and the variations in size, shape, and hardness of clods in the surface layer of tilled soils.
Many properties must be observed over time and summarized if one is to fully understand the soil being described and its response to short-term environmental changes. Some soil properties change through time. For some soils, standard terms are not adequate and must be supplemented by a narrative. It contains standard technical terms and their definitions for most soil properties and features and provides information for describing the necessary related facts. This chapter provides standards and guidelines for describing the soil. Examination and Description of Soil ProfilesĪ description of the soils is essential in any soil survey.
