jordmånsprofilens

A jordmånsprofil, often translated as soil profile, refers to a vertical section of the soil extending from the surface to the parent material. It is examined to reveal the various layers, or horizons, that have formed through natural processes over time. Each horizon is characterized by distinct physical, chemical, and biological properties.

The uppermost horizon, typically labeled O, consists of organic matter, such as decomposing leaves and plant debris. Beneath this is the A horizon, also known as the topsoil, which is rich in organic matter and mineral components, crucial for plant growth. The E horizon, if present, is a leached layer where minerals and organic matter have been washed down to lower horizons.

The B horizon, or subsoil, is where leached materials accumulate. It is often denser and lighter in color than the A horizon. Below this is the C horizon, composed of partially weathered parent material. Finally, the R horizon, or bedrock, represents the unweathered parent material from which the soil developed.

Studying the jordmånsprofil is fundamental in soil science and agriculture. It helps in understanding soil fertility, drainage, and suitability for different land uses. Variations in the profile indicate different soil types and the environmental conditions under which they formed, such as climate, topography, and biological activity.