What is soil organic carbon (SOC)?Group of answer choicesFraction of soil organic matterFraction of mineralsLiming materialAvailable water capacity

Understanding Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)

Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) refers specifically to the fraction of organic carbon found in the soil, which is a critical component of soil organic matter. It plays a significant role in soil health, fertility, and the storage of carbon, which is crucial for mitigating climate change.

Option Analysis

1. Fraction of Soil Organic Matter: This is the correct answer, as SOC is indeed a part of the broader category of soil organic matter (SOM). It contributes to essential soil functions such as nutrient supply, water retention, and promoting microbial activity.

2. Fraction of Minerals: This option is incorrect because SOC concerns organic matter rather than inorganic materials within the soil.

3. Liming Material: This option does not relate to SOC. Liming materials are used to correct soil acidity and are not a component of organic carbon.

4. Available Water Capacity: While SOC can influence water retention, it is not itself a measure of water capacity.

Conclusion

The correct choice from the provided answers is Fraction of soil organic matter. SOC is a vital aspect of soil that helps facilitate various ecological functions and contributes to the overall health of the soil ecosystem.