CFB Soil Science & Amendments 3

Question 1

Which soil test is used to determine the lime requirement for a sports field?

Accepted Answer

Buffer pH test (e.g., SMP buffer test)

Answer

Standard Proctor test

Answer

Sieve analysis (particle size distribution)

Answer

Percolation rate test

Question 2

In the USGA construction method, what is the primary function of the gravel layer placed beneath the sand root zone?

Accepted Answer

To create a perched water table that improves moisture retention in the sand above

Answer

To supply micronutrients as the gravel weathers

Answer

To prevent burrowing animals from disturbing the root zone

Answer

To provide structural support for heavy construction equipment during build

Question 3

In soil science, 'permeability' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The ease with which water or air moves through the soil

Answer

The soil's ability to support compressive loads without deformation

Answer

The soil's resistance to surface erosion by rainfall

Answer

The percentage of organic matter measurable by loss on ignition

Question 4

Gypsum (calcium sulfate) is most commonly applied to sports field soils to:

Accepted Answer

Improve clay structure by supplying calcium without significantly changing pH

Answer

Raise soil pH similarly to calcitic limestone

Answer

Increase organic matter content in the root zone

Answer

Prevent weed seed germination in newly constructed fields

Question 5

What is the primary agronomic benefit of a regular topdressing program on a natural grass sports field?

Accepted Answer

Gradual modification of the root zone profile and smoothing of the surface

Answer

Uniform pesticide distribution across the playing surface

Answer

Waterproofing the soil surface between events to limit water loss

Answer

Introduction of new grass cultivars to thin or bare areas

Question 6

Which factor most significantly affects the load-bearing capacity of a natural grass sports field on any given day?

Accepted Answer

Soil moisture content at the time of use

Answer

The species of turfgrass covering the surface

Answer

The color or reflectivity of the soil surface

Answer

The height of the grass canopy prior to the event

Question 7

What does soil moisture tension (matric potential) measure?

Accepted Answer

The force with which soil particles hold water, affecting plant water availability

Answer

The total mass of water held in a given volume of soil

Answer

The evaporation rate from the soil surface under ambient conditions

Answer

The electrical conductivity of soil water used to estimate salinity