Name the various components of soil. A little of soil is stirred with water in a beaker and allowed to stand. Which component of soil will float on the surface of water ?

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Components of Soil**:
- Soil is made up of several components. The main components include:
- **Minerals**: These are the inorganic particles that form the bulk of the soil.
- **Water**: Essential for the survival of plants and organisms in the soil.
- **Air/Gases**: Soil contains various gases that are important for plant growth.
- **Organic Matter**: This includes decomposed plant and animal material, which enriches the soil and provides nutrients.

2. **Understanding Soil Composition**:
- When soil is stirred with water, it separates into different components based on their density.
- The heavier particles, such as minerals, will settle at the bottom, while lighter components will remain suspended or float.

3. **Observation After Stirring**:
- After stirring the soil in water and allowing it to stand, the components will separate.
- The organic matter, which is lighter than the mineral particles, will rise to the surface of the water.

4. **Identifying the Floating Component**:
- The component that floats on the surface of the water after the soil has settled is **organic matter**.
- This organic matter is often referred to as **humus**, which is dark in color and contributes to the fertility of the soil.

### Final Answer:
The various components of soil include minerals, water, air/gases, and organic matter. The component of soil that will float on the surface of water is **organic matter** (humus).

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