Nature's Treasures - Soil, Rocks and Minerals

Rocks are naturally occurring solid masses of minerals. They are classified into three types: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic based on their formation.

Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling of molten magma or lava. Examples include Granite and Basalt.

Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and lithification of sediments over time. Common examples include Sandstone and Limestone, which often contains Calcium Carbonate ($CaCO_3$).

Metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks undergo high heat and pressure without melting. Examples include Marble (from Limestone) and Slate (from Shale).

Minerals are inorganic substances with a specific chemical composition. For instance, Quartz is composed of Silicon Dioxide ($SiO_2$).

Soil is formed through the process of 'Weathering', which is the breaking down of rocks by physical, chemical, and biological agents like water ($H_2O$), oxygen ($O_2$), and living organisms.

The Soil Profile consists of distinct layers called horizons: $A$-horizon (Topsoil), $B$-horizon (Subsoil), $C$-horizon (Parent Rock), and $R$-horizon (Bedrock).

Soil types are determined by particle size: Sandy soil (large particles, high aeration), Clayey soil (fine particles, high water retention), and Loamy soil (mixture of sand, silt, and clay; best for plant growth).

Percolation rate refers to how fast water passes through the soil. It is measured in $mL/min$.