1. O horizon: This is the uppermost layer, consisting of organic matter like leaves, twigs, and decomposing plant and animal remains. It is often called the "humus" layer.
2. A horizon: This layer is below the O horizon and is characterized by a mixture of minerals and organic matter. It's where most biological activity occurs and is often darker in color due to the presence of humus.
3. E horizon: This is a zone of eluviation (loss), where minerals and organic matter are leached downwards by water. It is typically light in color and often has a sandy texture. This horizon is not always present in all soil profiles.
4. B horizon: This is a zone of illuviation, where minerals and organic matter accumulate from the layers above. It is often denser and more compact than the A horizon and can have a distinctive color or texture.
5. C horizon: This layer is composed of partially weathered parent material from which the soil developed. It is generally less developed than the layers above and has fewer biological activities.
Note: Not all soil profiles will have all five horizons. The presence and development of each horizon depend on factors such as climate, vegetation, parent material, topography, and time.
