Which term describes the arrangement of soil particles?

The term that best describes the arrangement of soil particles is "structure." Soil structure refers to the way soil particles—such as sand, silt, and clay—are organized and aggregated in the soil profile. It influences important factors such as water retention, aeration, root penetration, and microbial activity, which are essential for healthy plant growth and effective soil function.

Soil structure can be identified in various forms, including granular, blocky, platy, or massive, and each of these shapes can affect soil behavior differently. For example, granular structure is ideal for root growth and infiltration of water, while platy structure may hinder movement of air and water through the soil.

In terms of context, while "texture" refers to the size distribution of soil particles, including percentages of sand, silt, and clay, it does not directly address how those particles are arranged. "Color" pertains to the visual aspect of soil, which can indicate certain properties or conditions but does not reflect particle arrangement. "Compaction," on the other hand, deals with the density of soil and the degree to which its particles are packed together, rather than how those particles are structured or arranged.