What do soil profiles represent?

Soil profiles are best represented by a vertical cross-section showing soil horizons. This means that when one looks at a soil profile, they can observe the different layers or horizons that make up the soil. Each horizon has distinct physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. These layers can include topsoil, subsoil, and parent material, each serving different ecological functions and influencing how plants grow and how water is retained and filtered in the soil.

Undertaking the examination of soil profiles is crucial for understanding soil health, composition, and suitability for agricultural practices. The arrangement and properties of the horizons reveal valuable information about the soil's history, formation processes, and its potential use for growing crops or supporting ecosystems.