Which of the following is NOT a major component of soil?

Soil is composed of several major components, each playing a critical role in its structure and function. The primary components of soil are water, organic matter, and minerals.

Water is vital as it facilitates the biological, chemical, and physical processes that occur in the soil, supporting plant growth and the overall ecosystem. Organic matter, which originates from decomposed plant and animal material, enriches the soil, enhances its structure, and improves its capacity to retain moisture and nutrients. Minerals, which make up the solid part of soil, provide essential nutrients that are crucial for plant health.

Excess nutrients, while they may influence soil quality and function, do not constitute a fundamental component of soil. Instead, they are often the result of external factors such as fertilizer application or runoff from nearby agricultural land. The presence of excess nutrients can lead to environmental issues, such as nutrient leaching or eutrophication, rather than being a foundational element of soil itself. Therefore, selecting excess nutrients as not being a major component accurately reflects the composition and role of primary soil components.