Which of the following is not an important step in soil formation?

Options

A. Removal of bacteria
B. Mechanical weathering
C. Chemical weathering
D. Clay formation

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Soil Formation**: Soil is the uppermost layer of the Earth's crust, composed of organic matter, minerals, and decomposed organisms. It is essential for plant growth and supports various life forms.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Removal of Bacteria**: Bacteria play a crucial role in soil formation as decomposers. They help break down organic matter into inorganic materials, enriching the soil. Therefore, their removal would hinder soil formation.
- **Mechanical Weathering**: This process involves the physical breakdown of rocks without altering their chemical composition. It contributes to soil formation by creating smaller particles from larger rocks.
- **Chemical Weathering**: This process involves the chemical alteration of minerals in rocks, leading to the formation of new minerals and soluble salts. It is a significant step in soil formation.
- **Clay Formation**: Clay minerals are the products of chemical weathering and are essential components of soil. They form through the breakdown of rocks and contribute to soil structure and fertility.

3. **Identifying the Incorrect Option**: Among the options, the removal of bacteria is not an important step in soil formation. In fact, bacteria are beneficial and necessary for the decomposition process that enriches the soil.

4. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question is **removal of bacteria**, as it is not an important step in soil formation.

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