1. A Horizon: This is the topsoil and is usually dark in colour due to the presence of organic matter. It is loose and friable and contains a mixture of sand, silt and clay.

2. B Horizon: This is the subsoil and is usually lighter in colour than the A Horizon. It is often more compact and contains more clay than the A Horizon. The B Horizon may also contain iron oxides which give it a red colour.

3. C Horizon: This is the parent material and is the least weathered of the three horizons. It is usually made up of rock or sediment that has not been significantly altered by weathering.