SOIL SCIENCE — Name for the study of soils In physical geography and agriculture, the scientific study of soils—formation, classification, and mapping—is called:

Introduction / Context:
Soils underpin ecosystems and agriculture. Two related disciplines often appear in exams: pedology and edaphology. Knowing the precise definitions helps avoid mix-ups.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pedology focuses on soil as a natural body (origin, classification, morphology).
• Edaphology focuses on soils in relation to plants and productivity.
• Other Earth-science fields are distinct.

Concept / Approach:
Pedology derives from “pedon” (soil) and “logos” (study). It covers soil horizons, formation processes, and taxonomic systems such as Soil Taxonomy or WRB. While edaphology overlaps, its emphasis is plant–soil relations and agronomy.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the term that denotes the comprehensive science of soil bodies → pedology.Differentiate from geomorphology (landforms), hydrology (water), and biogeography (species distributions).Note that edaphology, though soil-related, is not the general term for soil study as a natural body.

Verification / Alternative check:
University curricula and textbooks categorize soil science into pedology and edaphology; the umbrella science of soils as natural entities is pedology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Geomorphology — landform evolution at large scales.Hydrology — water cycle processes.Biogeography — spatial patterns of life.Edaphology — plant–soil relations rather than soil genesis/classification per se.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming edaphology and pedology are synonyms; they are complementary branches.

Final Answer:
pedology