EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The topsoil feels gritty because of the presence of coarse particles, like large particles of sand, and very small particles of clay. Therefore, the correct answer is Option B. Sand.

Detailed explanation-2: -Sand, silt, and clay are the variation in sizes of the soil particles. Sand is the largest size and feels gritty. Silt is moderate in size and feels smooth or floury. Clay is the smallest particle and feels sticky.

Detailed explanation-3: -The topsoil layer is a mixture of sand, silt, clay and broken down organic matter, called humus. Humus is rich, highly decomposed organic matter mostly made from dead plants, crunched-up leaves, dead insects and twigs. Topsoil is the home of living things and the materials that they make or they change.

Detailed explanation-4: -Clay and silt soils are made of very small particles. They feel slick and sticky when wet. Clay and silt hold moisture well, but resist water infiltration, especially when they are dry.

Detailed explanation-5: -Clay soil feels lumpy and is sticky when wet and rock hard when dry. Clay soil is poor at draining and has few air spaces.