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This text is concerned with soil formation, classification and mapping; physical, chemical, biological, and fertility properties of soils intrinsically; and these properties in relation to the use and management of soils. Soil is the extremely thin but precious skin covering our planet that sustains all terrestrial life forms and contributes nutrients and filters contaminants to aquatic environments. Soil Science focuses on the importance of soils as a very slowly renewable natural resource. It involves the study of the properties and processes that occur in soils, as well as the sustainable use and management of soils for the benefit of mankind. Given the rapidly growing population, possible future water shortages, increasing pollution, soil degradation and everincreasing food needs, Soil Science is indispensable for the prosperous future of humankind.
