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2. Soil Fundamentals
Record your observations and the relative amounts of material
settling, remaining suspended in the water, and floating.
Interpretation
•
The many kinds of soil particles swirl in
the water when you shake the jar. They
eventually settle according to their size
and weight.
•
Larger, heavier particles settle first
(pebbles and sand).
•
Smaller, lighter particles settle last
(fine silt).
•
Clay particles will not settle, and this
will cause the water to remain cloudy.
•
Sticks and bits of leaf matter float.
Supplies
•
Glass or clear plastic jar with a lid
•
Water
•
Small shovel or other tool to dig up
your sample
Instructions
1.
Pour a hefty scoop of soil into a clear
plastic jar.
2.
Fill the jar with water. Put the lid on and
shake well. Let it sit.
3.
Check the jar every several hours and
then over the next few days.
Settlement Technique
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
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