Name the main components of soil.

The soil is composed of inorganic and organic components.

1. Inorganic components: Following are the inorganic components of soil:
   1. Silica — is present in the soil in the form of small crystalline grains, the main constituent of sand.
   2. Clay — is a mixture of silicates and many other minerals such as iron, calcium, sodium, potassium and aluminium.
   3. Chalk (Calcium Carbonate) — provides the most essential elements for plant growth which is calcium.
2. Organic components: Organic matter is formed by the decomposition of plant remains, animal waste and dead animals. The ultimate form of organic matter is humus.