Final answer:
On steeply dipping land surfaces, soil tends to be thinner and more prone to erosion due to increased runoff and reduced water infiltration, impacting soil development and drainage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steeper the land surface dips, the thinner and more prone to erosion the soil is likely to be. Steep slopes lead to more soil erosion, less rainwater infiltration, and runoff, which collectively contribute to thinner soil horizons. In contrast, flatter areas tend to have thicker, more developed soils due to less erosion and better water retention. Hence, topography, including the steepness of slopes, has a substantial impact on soil characteristics and its development.
Soil drainage is also affected by the landscape, impacting organic matter accumulation and the types of vegetation that can grow in an area. On steep slopes, the rapid drainage can limit soil development, while more level terrain allows for better accumulation and preservation of organic matter, contributing to richer, deeper soils.
Furthermore, the orientation of slopes in relation to the sun affects microclimates, which in turn influence soil moisture levels and vegetation. For example, in the northern hemisphere, south-facing slopes tend to be warmer and drier, leading to a different plant community than the cooler and moister north-facing slopes.