Which horizon is stated to have a "sticky hand" texture?

Which horizon is stated to have a "sticky hand" texture?

• A. Coarse B horizon
• B. Moderately coarse B horizon
• C. Moderately fine B horizon
• D. Fine B horizon

Answer: (C)

The "sticky hand" texture refers to the tactile sensation experienced when handling soil with a high proportion of clay. This characteristic is most commonly associated with a fine texture, which aligns with the characteristics of a fine B horizon. In soils, the B horizon is where materials leached from the upper layers accumulate, and when it's classified as fine, it typically contains a higher percentage of clay particles. This density and moisture retention create the "sticky" feel when the soil is moistened and manipulated. In contrast, coarser textures would not exhibit the same degree of stickiness. So, understanding that the fine B horizon's clay composition allows it to adhere to the hands when moist clarifies why this horizon is the correct answer.

The "sticky hand" texture refers to the tactile sensation experienced when handling soil with a high proportion of clay. This characteristic is most commonly associated with a fine texture, which aligns with the characteristics of a fine B horizon. In soils, the B horizon is where materials leached from the upper layers accumulate, and when it's classified as fine, it typically contains a higher percentage of clay particles. This density and moisture retention create the "sticky" feel when the soil is moistened and manipulated.

In contrast, coarser textures would not exhibit the same degree of stickiness. So, understanding that the fine B horizon's clay composition allows it to adhere to the hands when moist clarifies why this horizon is the correct answer.