Soil production is a process that helps us understand the life of the soil and how it affects plants, animals, and people. The layers of soil found in nature, made up of rocks, organic matter, and water, form the basis for understanding soil production. By taking an in-depth look at how these components interact, people can learn how to improve and protect the land we depend on. Soil production starts with the breakdown of rocks. Rocks are composed of minerals and contain nutrients that help the soil to regenerate. Through a process called weathering, rocks are broken down into smaller pieces over time due to changes in temperature, moisture, and pressure. This produces sedimentary materials, both inorganic and organic, that are essential for creating and maintaining healthy soil. Organic matter is made up of decaying plant and animal material. This is important for soil formation and helps the soil retain water. Organic matter also helps with nutrient cycling. It provides food f...