Which of the following is a key factor in determining soil quality?

Texture is a key factor in determining soil quality because it directly influences various properties of the soil, such as its ability to retain moisture, its drainage capacity, and its nutrient-holding capacity. Soil texture refers to the size and distribution of soil particles, which are classified into sand, silt, and clay.

Soils with a balanced mixture of these particle sizes tend to have good aeration, water holding capabilities, and nutrient availability, all of which are critical for supporting plant growth. For instance, sandy soils drain quickly and can dry out, while clay soils can become compacted, leading to poor drainage and aeration. Soil texture also affects root development and the overall ecosystem of soil microorganisms, making it integral to soil health and agricultural productivity.

While color, odor, and weight might provide additional information about the soil, they do not influence its physical and chemical behavior as fundamentally as texture does.