
Soils and Geomaterials
Soils and geomaterials are naturally occurring Earth materials, including rocks, clay, sand, gravel, and silt, that form the ground beneath our feet. They are essential for supporting structures, guiding water flow, and influencing ecosystems. Soils are complex mixtures of mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air, which affect how plants grow and how construction projects are planned. Geomaterials, a broader term, encompass all the solid materials like rock and soil used in engineering and construction. Understanding their properties helps engineers design safe foundations, manage land use, and protect the environment effectively.