Which three particles make up soil?

Soil is primarily composed of three key particles: sand, silt, and clay. These three components play essential roles in determining the characteristics of soil, including its texture, structure, and drainage capacity.

Sand is characterized by its larger particle size, which allows for good aeration and drainage but holds less water and nutrients. Silt has a medium particle size and retains more moisture and nutrients than sand, while clay has the smallest particle size and is known for compactness, which can lead to poor drainage but provides a high nutrient retention capability due to its large surface area.

The combination of these three particles defines the overall texture of the soil and influences its fertility, which is crucial for agricultural practices and plant growth. Understanding the proportions of these components helps in soil management and agricultural planning.