What type of soil is it? in Soil – Our Life – Class 7 Science Experiment
Chapter Name: Soil – Our Life
Activity Name: What type of soil is it? in Soil – Our Life
Activity Description:

The experiment aims to identify different types of soils based on their ability to be molded into specific shapes.
By kneading soil with water and forming it into balls and rods, the participants can determine the soil type based on its consistency and behavior.
Required Items:
- Soil sample (approximately 20 gm to 25 gm)
- Water
- Flat surface
Step by Step Procedure:
- Take 20 gm to 25 gm of soil from the soil sample.
- Remove any pebbles, grass, or organic matter from the soil.
- Add water to the soil, drop by drop, while kneading the soil simultaneously.
- Continue adding water until you can form small balls of soil without it sticking to your palms.
- Make a 2.5 cm diameter ball of soil.
- Place this ball of soil on a flat surface and try to roll it into a 15-cm-long rod.
- If the rod can be bent without breaking, try to bend it into a ring.
Experiment Observations:
- The ability to form a ball without sticking indicates the cohesion and plasticity of the soil.
- The ability to roll the soil into a rod and bend it into a ring reflects the soil’s strength and flexibility.
Precautions:
- Ensure the soil sample is free from any debris or impurities before conducting the experiment.
- Use a consistent amount of water while kneading the soil to ensure uniformity in observations.
Lesson Learnt from Experiment:
The experiment helps in understanding the different properties of soils and how these properties can be used to identify various soil types. The cohesion, plasticity, strength, and flexibility of the soil provide valuable insights into its composition and characteristics.