What is bedrock considered in the context of soil horizons?

Bedrock is considered the deepest layer of soil in the context of soil horizons. It is the solid rock that lies beneath the soil layers and is often referred to as the parent material for the soil above it. Over time, this bedrock can weather and break down into smaller particles that contribute to the formation of the soil. The layers above bedrock, known as soil horizons, include organic matter, topsoil, subsoil, and sometimes materials that have been translocated from these upper levels. Understanding the relationship between bedrock and these soil horizons is crucial for studying soil formation, fertility, and vegetation growth. This concept highlights the importance of bedrock as a foundational element in the soil profile, influencing the characteristics and composition of the soil that develops above it.