Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

Texture in the context of soil refers to what aspect?

1. Color or characteristic patterns

2. Size or combination of sizes of soil particles

3. Moisture content and nutrient levels

4. Depth and layering of soil

The correct answer is: Size or combination of sizes of soil particles

Texture in the context of soil refers to the size or combination of sizes of soil particles. This aspect is foundational in understanding soil behavior and its suitability for various uses, including agriculture, landscaping, and construction. Soil texture is typically classified into different categories such as sand, silt, and clay, each of which has distinct properties influencing water retention, drainage, aeration, and nutrient availability. For instance, sandy soils tend to drain quickly due to their larger particle size, while clay soils, with their smaller particles, retain moisture and nutrients more effectively. Understanding soil texture is essential for effective stormwater management because it helps determine how water moves through the soil, which directly impacts erosion control and water quality management. The other choices refer to aspects that, while important in soil science — such as color, moisture content, and layering — do not accurately define the concept of soil texture itself.