Key words
Soil science, Mineralogy
Objectives
To gain an insight into the genesis, the mineralogical composition (mainly the clay minerals) and physical characteristics of soils as growing medium for plants.
Competences
The course enables the student to interpret the mineralogical, morphological and physical properties of soils of the temperate regions. Those properties are very important for a rational management of the soils.
Topics
The first chapter treats de structure and chemical composition of the earth crust. In the second chapter, the mineralogical composition of the earth crust (and soil) is discussed, with emphasis on silicate minerals (clay minerals). The third chapter treats the parent materials (rocks) and soil forming processes. An adequate knowledge of natural rocks and their minerals is essential for agronomists. The distribution of the rocks in Belgium is discussed in the chapter on the geology of Belgium. The nature of rocks will greatly determine the soil type and soil characteristics (chapter five). Major attention is given on the physical characteristics of soils (soil texture and structure, soil water and air, bulk density, …). The genesis of soils, the soil profile and the basic principles of soil classification in Belgium are also discussed (last chapter).
Prerequisites
First year industrial engineer
Final Objectives
Materials used
Lecture notes 'Bodemkunde' (G. Baert), in Dutch
Study costs
10 euro
Study guidance
Books and software available at the Laboratory
Teaching Methods
Lectures combined with homestudy and exersises. Excursion on relation soil - parent material in Belgium
Assessment
- Scoring system:
written examination and exersises
Lecturer(s)
G. Baert
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