The course introduces soil as a structural reality in landscape analysis and a natural resource for planning. It starts introducing soil as a functional system, examining its composition, architecture and functions. It then goes on to representations of soil spatial variability to close on techniques of soil evaluation in land planning and management.
A. Giordano. Pedologia. Ed. UTET; Torino. 1999.
G. Certini e F.C. Ugolini. Basi di pedologia. Edgricole – Ed. Agricole Il Sole 24 Ore Spa; Milano. 2010.
Teacher-supplied material (pdf files).
Learning Objectives
Knowledge of techniques involved in soil science, of main characteristics and qualities of soils, of procedures for identification of soil distribution on land, according to potential land use.
Prerequisites
None
Teaching Methods
Theoretical lectures 20 hours
Laboratory activity 28 hours, including field visits.
Further information
Not relevant
Type of Assessment
By choice of students:
Oral exam
Preparation, presentation and discussion of laboratory project on soil evaluation
For foreign students only, on demand: written exam
Course program
Soil as a natural body and his main functions.
Basics on soil formation factors and soil formation.
Soil as a 3D body: soil horizons and pedogenic features.
Minerals, rocks and weathering processes.
Silicate clays and their genesis.
Physical properties: particle size composition, hydrological characteristics, porosity and pedality, bulk density, colour interpretation.
Chemical properties: pH, Cation and Anion Exchange Capacity, buffering capacity.
Short account to genetic classifications.
Soil classifications and evaluations for specific uses (environmental sustainability).
Soil survey and mapping, soil maps interpretation.