Pedon

A pedon is a fundamental unit used by soil scientists to study and describe soils. It is a three-dimensional sample of soil that includes all the layers or horizons from the surface down to a depth where the soil properties no longer change significantly. Think of it as a detailed “volume” of soil representing a small, typical patch of land, allowing scientists to analyze its composition, structure, and characteristics comprehensively. By studying pedons, researchers can understand soil health, fertility, and classification, which helps in land management, agriculture, and environmental conservation.