What is soil erosion?

• A. The yellowing of leaves due to magnesium or zinc deficiency
• B. Movement of soil components from one place to another
• C. A type of fungus seen on plants
• D. A method of plant propagation

Answer: (B)

Soil erosion is the movement of soil components from one place to another, usually caused by water or wind. When rain hits bare soil, it can detach and wash away the topsoil, and strong winds can lift dry soil particles and carry them away. This removal lowers soil depth and fertility and can deposit sediment in streams and other waterways, affecting water quality. It’s most likely to happen on exposed, sloped, or recently disturbed ground, particularly after heavy rain or when vegetation cover is missing. Understanding erosion helps explain why practices like maintaining ground cover, mulching, and controlling runoff are important for keeping soil in place. The other ideas describe nutrient deficiencies, diseases, or plant propagation, which are not about moving soil.