Function of Structure

Observing soil structure at the soil profile scale, one can distinguish between two contrasting situations that affect not only the water and air permeability of the soil but also the biological activity within the soil. The profile on the left shows well-aggregated soil with large stable aggregates, resulting in large pores between the aggregates. Air and water can then move freely, and plant roots find many easy pathways for growth. In contrast, the profile on the right shows compacted soil where no macro-pores are present. Here, the movement of fluids and root penetration is severely impeded.

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