residual soil
Definition
Noun The layer of unconsolidated mineral and organic material that remains in place after the rock from which it formed has undergone extensive chemical weathering and leaching. It is the soil that remains after the soluble elements have been dissolved and removed.
Usage
"Residual soil" is a technical term used primarily in geology, soil science, and engineering. It describes soil that has developed in situ (in its original place) from the underlying bedrock, as opposed to soil that has been transported by wind, water, or ice.
Examples
- The red clay found across the southeastern United States is a classic example of residual soil formed from the weathering of crystalline rocks.
- Engineers must study the properties of the residual soil before constructing a foundation, as its characteristics are directly linked to the parent rock.
- Unlike transported soils, residual soil often shows a gradual transition into the weathered bedrock below.
Advanced Usage
- Residual soil profile: Refers to the vertical sequence of soil horizons developed from weathering in place.
- The chemical composition of a residual soil is dominated by insoluble minerals like iron and aluminum oxides, which remain after more soluble components like calcium and sodium are leached away.
Variants and Related Words
- Residuum (noun): A synonym often used in geological contexts to mean the material remaining after weathering.
- Saprolite (noun): Soft, thoroughly decomposed rock found in place, representing an intermediate stage between bedrock and true residual soil. It is often considered part of the residual weathering profile.
- Laterite (noun): A specific type of residual soil rich in iron and aluminum oxides, formed in hot and wet tropical climates.
Synonyms
- Residuum
- In-situ soil
- Sedentary soil (less common)
Antonyms
- Transported soil: Soil that has been moved from its place of origin by agents like water (alluvial soil), wind (eolian soil), or ice (glacial till).
- Alluvial soil: Soil deposited by flowing water.
Noun
-
the soil that is remaining after the soluble elements have been dissolved
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