sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
Mohs hardness varies from 1 to 7 depending on mineral fraction (quartz, clay minerals, organic matter). Color is earthy brown to gray with reflective mineral flecks. Luster is dull to earthy. Granular, fine-to-coarse aggregate texture.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness varies from 1 to 7 depending on mineral fraction (quartz, clay minerals, organic matter). Color is earthy brown to gray with reflective mineral flecks. Luster is dull to earthy. Granular, fine-to-coarse aggregate texture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through physical and chemical weathering of pre-existing bedrock, accumulation of organic detritus, and superficial geological deposition.
Uses & applications
Soil substrate for biological growth, agriculture, land stabilization, and geological surface mapping.
Geological facts
Regolith and soil cover most of Earth's land surface and contain fine particulate minerals including quartz, feldspars, clay minerals, and organic compounds.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its dark brown to grayish color, friable or earthy texture, mixed particulate sizes, and association with surface landforms.
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