What factors should be observed in the reduced matrix of soil?

The reduced matrix of soil primarily refers to the characteristics that indicate the soil's redox conditions, particularly in terms of the presence and movement of water, as well as the availability of oxygen. Observing the reduced matrix color, oxidized color, and time for color change provides critical insights into the soil's drainage properties and the extent of saturation.

The reduced matrix color indicates the condition of the soil in a reduced state, where iron and other elements have been chemically altered due to the absence of oxygen. The oxidized color provides information about the soil when it is well-aerated, reflecting a different chemical state. The time for color change is an important factor as it gives a sense of how quickly the soil can transition between these states, which is valuable for understanding drainage dynamics and the potential for anaerobic conditions.

In contrast, observing color alone, moisture content, and compaction does not provide sufficient insight into the specific redox reactions occurring within the soil. While texture, permeability, and nutrient levels are key soil properties, they do not directly relate to the reduced matrix's behaviors and implications for soil drainage and aerobic/anaerobic conditions. Additionally, moisture, biological activity, and mixture composition, while relevant to soil health, do not specifically target