Repeat the above activity a day after it rains. Remember to pick up the soil from the same place. Did you find any differences in the look, feel and smell of the soil?
After rain, the soil appears darker in colour and feels damp rather than dry.
The texture becomes softer and easier to crumble.
The smell becomes stronger and more earthy.
More insects and creatures like earthworms and millipedes may be visible near the surface.
Small plants and grasses may also start growing more noticeably.
Explanation
The chapter explains that when it rains and the soil is wet, creatures like earthworms and millipedes may appear. Students may also find more grasses and other plants growing in the soil. The Note to the Teacher explains that some insects wait for the rains to emerge from the soil, and seeds may remain in soil for long periods and sprout when watered.
Solution Steps
Soil appears darker in colour after rain
Soil feels damp rather than dry
Texture becomes softer and easier to crumble
Smell becomes stronger and more earthy
Insects and creatures like earthworms and millipedes become visible near the surface
Small plants and grasses start growing more noticeably