- A new study looked at soil across the United States.
- The scientists found soils decompose carbon very differently.
- Soil stores more carbon than air and plants.
- How fast carbon breaks down affects the climate.
- Researchers took soil samples and tested them in labs.
- They measured carbon dioxide from the soil.
- The tests showed big regional differences on maps.
- Fungi and minerals can change decomposition.
- Better knowledge can help manage soil carbon.
Difficult words
- soil — the top layer of earth where plants growsoils
- decompose — to break into smaller parts
- carbon — a chemical element found in living things
- climate — the usual weather of a place
- sample — a small part taken to studysamples
- fungus — a small organism like a mushroomFungi
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you have a garden or plants at home?
- Do you ever touch or dig soil?
- Would you like to learn about soil and climate?
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