Soils Geography

Soils Geography is the sub-discipline of physical geography concerned with the spatial distribution of soils, their properties, and their formation processes. It investigates pedogenesis (soil formation), soil classification, and the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that define different soil types. Central to this field is understanding the complex interplay between soils and other environmental factors—such as climate, parent material, topography, and organisms—to explain why specific soil patterns exist across the globe and to manage soil as a critical natural resource.

1. Introduction to Soils Geography
   1. Defining Soil
      1. The Interface of Earth's Spheres
         1. Lithosphere Interactions
         2. Atmosphere Interactions
         3. Hydrosphere Interactions
         4. Biosphere Interactions
      2. Soil as a Natural Body
         1. Three-Dimensional Characteristics
         2. Dynamic System Properties
         3. Temporal Variability
      3. Distinction from Regolith and Sediment
         1. Regolith Definition and Properties
         2. Sediment Definition and Properties
         3. Pedogenic Development Differences
   2. The Role of Soil in Earth Systems
      1. Medium for Plant Growth
         1. Physical Root Support
         2. Nutrient Supply Functions
         3. Water Availability
      2. Water Storage and Regulation
         1. Infiltration and Retention
         2. Groundwater Recharge
         3. Flood Control
      3. Habitat for Organisms
         1. Biodiversity Support
         2. Microhabitat Complexity
         3. Food Web Foundation
      4. Biogeochemical Cycling
         1. Carbon Storage and Cycling
         2. Nitrogen Cycling
         3. Phosphorus Cycling
         4. Sulfur Cycling
      5. Engineering and Human Uses
         1. Construction Foundation
         2. Waste Filtration
         3. Archaeological Preservation
   3. Historical Development of Soil Science
      1. Early Agricultural Observations
      2. Russian School of Pedology
      3. American Soil Survey Development
      4. Modern Quantitative Approaches
   4. Soils Geography within Physical Geography
      1. Relationships to Geomorphology
      2. Connections to Climatology
      3. Links to Biogeography
      4. Integration with Hydrology