What kind of soil texture the sample has, if you cannot make a ball?Group of answer choicesSandLoamy sandClayLoam

1. Break Down the Problem

The question asks about the classification of soil texture based on the inability to form a ball with a soil sample. We need to evaluate the characteristics of the soil types listed (Sand, Loamy Sand, Clay, and Loam) to determine which one aligns with this observation.

2. Relevant Concepts

Soil texture is determined by the proportions of sand, silt, and clay present in the soil, affecting its physical properties. Key points for the soil types are:

• Sand: Coarse texture, gritty feel, does not hold shape when wet; usually does not form a ball.
• Loamy Sand: Contains more sand than silt and clay, better structure than sand but still can struggle to hold a ball shape.
• Clay: Fine texture, holds water and can easily be molded into a ball.
• Loam: Balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, holds together well and can form a ball easily.

3. Analysis and Detail

From the descriptions, we observe:

• If you cannot make a ball, this suggests that the soil lacks sufficient fine particles (like clay) that aid in cohesion.
• Sand would be the most likely candidate since it is primarily coarse and does not retain the shape due to its larger particle size.
• Loamy sand may hold its shape slightly better than pure sand but is still primarily sand-based.

4. Verify and Summarize

Given that you cannot form a ball with the soil sample, it is most consistent with sand or possibly loamy sand. However, pure sand is unlikely to hold shape at all, making it the most probable answer.

Final Answer

Sand is the type of soil texture you are likely dealing with if you cannot make a ball.