What does soil consist of?

Soil is a complex mixture that plays a fundamental role in the ecosystem, and it is characterized by its composition of mineral particles, organic material, water, and air. The correct choice reflects this composition accurately.

Soil consists primarily of mineral particles that originate from the weathering of rocks, which includes sand, silt, and clay. Additionally, organic material in soil, which includes decomposed plant and animal matter known as humus, is crucial for soil fertility, providing essential nutrients to plants and helping to retain moisture. The combination of these mineral particles and organic material creates a fertile environment that supports plant growth and contributes to biodiversity.

While water is an essential component of the soil, as it infiltrates the spaces between particles, the mention of only mineral particles and water overlooks the critical role of organic matter in soil health. Therefore, the comprehensive nature of the mixture, including both minerals and organic content, is what defines soil accurately.