Laboratory Exercise No.

DISTURBED SOIL SAMPLING, LABELLING AND STORAGE

AND DETERMINITATION OF SOIL PROFILE
Title

Objectives:
To obtain disturbed soil samples correctly, label and store it properly.

Apparatus:

1. Soil Auger
2. Spade or shovel
3. Digging tools
4. Moisture tight sample container/ sample plastic container

Procedure:

1. Clear the area of grass and vegetation where the sample is to be taken.
2. With the use of the soil auger, the soil is bored until desired depth is reached and obtain
disturbed sample.
3. Record the depth of each type of soil strata.
4. Place the soil in sample can with adequate space for large quantities and glass jars for small
samples.
5. Place a label on sample and prepare the corresponding sample data for filing purposes.
6. Store sample in a cool room.
7. Plot the soil profile based on the record of each group.

Discussion:

Disturbed soil sampling is an important factor in determination of the properties of soil. The
correct method of sampling will lead to more accurate results in the determination of soil properties and
structure. The storage of a sample, after it has been obtained, is as important as sampling itself. If the
storage is not done properly, it will lead to a change in some of the properties of the sample. The
labeling of a sample is necessary for easy identification of the sample and to avoid confusions if different
persons undertake the testing of the soil sample. A better filling of soil samples will also mean better
control of data acquisition.

The soil profile is defined as a vertical section of the soil from the ground surface downwards to
where the soil meets the underlying rock. Virtually all soil profiles are composed of a number of
distinctive layers, termed horizons, interpretation of which is the key to understanding how the soil has
formed. Most soils will have three or more horizons.