GED Science Practice

What kind of soil is loam composed of according to the details discussed?

1. Sand only

2. Clay only

3. Decaying organic materials only

4. Mixture of sand, clay, and decaying organic materials

The correct answer is: Mixture of sand, clay, and decaying organic materials

Loam is a type of soil that is composed of a mixture of sand, clay, and decaying organic materials. This composition is what makes loam an ideal type of soil for plant growth and gardening. Option A is incorrect because sand alone does not provide the necessary nutrients and moisture retention for plants. Option B is incorrect because clay alone tends to be too dense and can restrict root growth. Option C is incorrect because decaying organic materials alone do not provide enough structure and can decompose too quickly. Therefore, option D, a mixture of sand, clay, and decaying organic materials, is the correct answer as it combines the benefits of each component to create a balanced and nutrient-rich soil.