Which term describes the arrangement of particles in soil?

The term that describes the arrangement of particles in soil is referred to as soil structure. Soil structure refers to how soil particles cluster together to form aggregates, and these arrangements can significantly influence various soil properties, such as aeration, water retention, and root penetration. A well-developed soil structure usually promotes healthy plant growth because it allows for better movement of air and water through the soil, which is essential for plant roots and soil organisms.

Understanding soil structure is important for agricultural practices, as it can affect soil fertility and the overall health of an ecosystem. In contrast, soil texture pertains specifically to the size of individual soil particles—sand, silt, and clay—and how these different particle sizes influence water retention and drainage. Nutrient status relates to the availability of nutrients in the soil, which impacts plant growth but does not describe the arrangement of particles. Lastly, porosity refers to the volume of spaces or voids in the soil that can hold air or water, but again, it does not convey the arrangement of the soil particles themselves.