Lab 1

INTRODUCTION
Soil Sampling
Soil sampling is the process of taking a small sample of soil, which is then sent to a lab to
get information about a larger soil body or area. The sample may or may not be
representative of the latter, depending on how samples are selected and collected.
The properties of soil samples vary horizontally across the landscape and vertically down the
soil profile. The soil should be subdivided into classes, each of which can be characterized.
The characteristics of soil cover can be determined using only a few soil samples that weigh
at most a few kilograms each.
Sampling Plan
Judgemental sampling refers to typical or visible differences. In environmental studies,
judgemental sampling is often the basis of exploratory sampling. Random sampling is
probability sampling and has the advantages associated with the use of probability theory.
We achieve random sampling by following strict guidelines, that is, by identifying and
selecting individuals in a population without bias.
Examples of random sampling are

1. Simple random sampling
Simple random sampling allows any combination of sample units to be selected.
2. Stratified random sampling

In stratified sampling, the total area is divided into several subareas or strata, and
a random sample is taken from each stratum. This method is used to make the
statements about each stratum separately, as well as to increase the precision of
the results.
3. Grid or systematic sampling

The grid method selects units at regular intervals to ensure complete coverage of
a soil population. Sampling points are situated at regular intervals on the grid.
4. Composite Sampling
Composite sampling is used when the average value of a soil property is
required. Analytical costs can be significantly reduced by using composite
sampling. As part of the study, several soil samples are mixed thoroughly to form
a composite. This composite is then subsampled for testing in the laboratory.
Objective
 To take a soil sample from selected areas.
 To prepare the soil for further laboratory analysis.
 To obtain reliable information about the particular soil.
Materials
Auger, spade, hammer, meter ruler, tape, plastic bags, marker, pestle, and porcelain mortar.
Methods
1. The location of the sampling point was identified.

2. The soil sample was taken using an auger at two different depths of 0-25cm (top soil)
and below 25cm (sub soil) at two different points or places
3. 1 to 2 kilograms of the sample was taken.
4. The soil sample was put into the plastic bags and labeled according to the area, soil
depth, date, and group number.
5. The dry soil sample was put in the laboratory for 7 days (air dry)
6. A portion of the soil samples was crumbled by using pestle and porcelain mortar. The
soil sample was made sure to be clear from any dead roots or rubbish.
Result
Discussion
Many definitions described soil but one of them was soil was defined as a mixture of
minerals and organic particles of varying sizes and compositions regarding plant growth
(Abdulkadir, 2017). Nevertheless, the soil is a very important element to all living organisms
whether for humans, plants, animals, or even microorganisms. Soil covered about 30
percent of earth surfaces. Soil provided physical support for both plants and animals
including humans and the physical structure they build.
There are many benefits of soil like providing physical support for plant growth by
allowing the roots to grab them so that the plants will not easily fall. Next, it provides many
essential nutrients to plants like calcium, magnesium, sodium, etc. Apart from that, soil also
plays a vital role in cycling freshwater as every drop of our water sources either in lakes,
rivers, oceans, etc. will travel through soil or over its surfaces. Apart from that, soil also
provides shelter and home for many tiny organisms that belong to thousands of species
such as microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, earthworms, mites, ants, snakes, rabbits,
and many more.
Soil consists of four major components which are minerals soil (45%), organic matter
(5%), water (25%), and air (25%). Apart from that, soil also contains about 50%of solid
spaces and another 50% pore space. The solid space was being occupied by the minerals
matter and organic matter that divided by 45 percent and 5 percent consecutively, while for
the pore spaces it was being occupied by the water and air that being divided by 25 percent
each. The mineral fractions were a large percentage of the total soil volume and they are
made up of four main particles which are gravel, sand, silt, and clay. The portion of these
particles plays an important role in determining the fertility of the soil (Baxter & Williamson,
2001) and how to manage it. Moreover, soil quality depends on soil fertility, if the fertility of
the soil is higher, the soil quality will be higher, and vice versa. So, to investigate the soil
fertility and soil quality, first and foremost we need to identify and know the soil texture and
also soil physical characteristics like colors, pH, moisture content, and many more
Conclusion
The sample that was going to be used for this experiment was successfully being collected.
As for experiences for collecting the soil sample was, I find it was very easy because it does not take
much time as I thought in mind. Thus, it gives me new experience as throughout my life I do not
have any experience collecting the soil to make the experiment. The objective of the experiment is
achieved.
Question
1. Describe how topsoil can be differentiated from the subsoil.
Topsoil tends to be much darker in color since the soil is more fertile than subsoil. Topsoil is
much more fertile than subsoil because it contains more organic matter, thus giving it a darker color.
The subsoil is the layer of soil below the topsoil.
2. How does drying of soil samples affect the soil properties?
Air drying decreased soil pH and increased extractability of calcium, micronutrients, and metals.
References
1. Baxter, N., & Williamson, J. (2001). Know Your Soil. Agriculture Victoria. Centre for and
Protection Research
2. Abdulkadir, M. O. (2017). Introduction to Soil Sciences. The lemon Productions
3. Penn state Extension, Introduction to Soil: Soil Quality, 2017, October 17,
https://extension.psu.edu/introduction-to-soils-soil-quality#:~:text=Soil%20health%20is
%20the%20foundation,infiltrate%2C%20and%20roots%20to%20explore

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INTRODUCTION

Examples of random sampling are

2. Stratified random sampling

3. Grid or systematic sampling

1. The location of the sampling point was identified.

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