What factors influence soil formation?

The factors that influence soil formation are diverse and interconnected, making the selection that includes parent material, climate, topography, organisms, and time the most comprehensive and accurate. Each of these factors plays a significant role in the processes that create and evolve soils.

Parent material refers to the mineral and organic materials from which soils develop. It provides the initial composition and texture of the soil. Climate influences soil formation through temperature and precipitation, affecting weathering processes and biological activity. Topography, or the landscape's physical characteristics, determines drainage, erosion, and exposure to the elements, which can alter soil properties. Organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, contribute organic matter and influence nutrient cycling, which can significantly impact soil development. Time is crucial because soil formation is a gradual process, and the longer soil has been in a particular environment, the more it can reflect the characteristics imparted by the other factors.

In contrast to the other options, which limit the scope of factors influencing soil formation to just a few elements or isolate human activity, this option provides a holistic view of all the critical components that contribute to the complexity of soil genesis. Understanding these factors is essential for soil management, conservation, and understanding ecosystem dynamics.