Regarding physical composition, soils consist of mineral and organic particles of different sizes. The particles form a matrix with roughly 50 percent pore space, which is filled with both water and air. This results in a tripartite system consisting of solids (mineral and organic matter), liquids (water), and gases (air). In essence, the physical properties of soils greatly impact all of their uses. Soil's physical properties are characteristics, processes, or reactions resulting from physical forces and can be explained using physical terms or equations. The physical properties of soil, such as texture, structure, density, porosity, consistency, colour, temperature, and water content, are connected to plant support, root penetration, drainage, permeability, aeration, moisture retention, and nutrient availability in soil. The chemical and biological characteristics of all soils are also affected by the physical properties of soil. The physical characteristics of soil are influenced by the quantity, dimensions, configuration, and mineral components of its particles. The amount of organic matter and pore spaces in soil also plays a role.
Soil texture, Soil structure, Density, Porosity, Permeability
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Brady, N.C. (2001). The Nature and Properties of Soils. Tenth Edition, Prentice Hall of India Private Limited. New Delhi.
Hillel, D. (1980). Fundamentals of Soil Physics, Academic Press, New York.
Millar, C.E., Turk, L.M. & Foth, H.D. (1958). Fundaments of Soil Science, John Wiley and Sons. Inc., New York.
