To understand biological role of Silica in animals, we may have to first understand its role in plants & soil- where it exists in abundant. We may have to understand the meaning of following terms in this respect:-

Capillary Action

Movement of water along microscopic channels. This movement is the result of two forces: the adhesion and absorption of water to the walls of the channels; and cohesion of water molecules to each other.

Capillary Water

Water that moves horizontally and vertically in soils by the process of capillary action. This water is available for plant use.


Soil

Layer of unconsolidated material found at the Earth's surface that has been influenced by the soil forming factors: climate, relief, parent material, time, and organisms. Soil normally consists of weathered mineral particles, dead and living organic matter, air space, and the soil solution.

Soil Colloids

Very small organic and inorganic particles found in a soil. Inorganic colloids are often clay particles. Soil colloids carry a negative electrical charge and are the primary sites for cation exchange. Soil colloids hold large quanities of elements and compounds which are used by plants for nutrition.

Soil-Heat Flux

The rate of flow of heat energy into, from, or through the soil.

Soil Permeability

The rate at which water and air move vertically through a soil.

Soil Porosity

The volume of water that can be held in a soil. Also refers to the ratio of the volume of voids to the total volume of the soil.

Soil Solution

Aqueous liquid found within a soil. This liquid normally contains ions released from mineral particles, organic matter or plant roots and leaves.

Soil Structure

General term that describes how mineral and particles organic matter of are organized and clumped together in a soil.

Soil Texture

The relative quantities of the different types and sizes of mineral particles in a soil.

Soil Water

The water found occupying the pore spaces between soil particles.

[ 30. March 2004, 10:40: Message edited by: kayveeh ]

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