CATS Soil and Water 2

Question 1

Which soil horizon is most important for tree root development and nutrient uptake?

Accepted Answer

A horizon (topsoil)

Answer

O horizon (organic layer)

Answer

B horizon (subsoil)

Answer

C horizon (parent material)

Question 2

What does the term 'field capacity' refer to in soil science?

Accepted Answer

The amount of water remaining in soil after excess has drained by gravity

Answer

The maximum amount of water soil can hold before flooding

Answer

The minimum water content at which plants can survive

Answer

The total pore space available in a soil sample

Question 3

In Albuquerque's arid climate, which irrigation strategy best promotes deep root development in trees?

Accepted Answer

Infrequent deep watering less often

Answer

Frequent shallow watering daily

Answer

Overhead sprinkler irrigation on a timer

Answer

Surface drip irrigation at the trunk base

Question 4

What is the primary cause of soil compaction around urban trees?

Accepted Answer

Foot and vehicle traffic

Answer

Excessive irrigation

Answer

High clay content alone

Answer

Organic mulch decomposition

Question 5

Which nutrient deficiency in alkaline Albuquerque soils most commonly causes interveinal chlorosis in trees?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Answer

Nitrogen

Answer

Phosphorus

Answer

Calcium

Question 6

What soil amendment is most commonly used to lower pH in alkaline desert soils?

Accepted Answer

Elemental sulfur

Answer

Lime

Answer

Perlite

Answer

Peat moss alone

Question 7

Which of the following best describes 'wilting point' in relation to soil water?

Accepted Answer

The soil moisture level below which plants cannot extract water

Answer

The water content at which soil becomes waterlogged

Answer

The point at which irrigation should begin regardless of plant stress

Answer

The maximum water-holding capacity of a given soil