Explain why most soils in Ireland are regarded as "young" soils in geological terms. - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 1(a) - 2006

Most soils in Ireland are considered 'young' because they have formed from glacial drift. The last major glaciation, which significantly shaped the Irish landscape, occurred approximately 10,000 years ago. This relatively recent geological activity means that the soils are in the early stages of development.

The glacial deposits, which include a mixture of clay, silt, sand, and gravel, provide a varied substrate for soil formation. However, since these materials were only recently uncovered as the glaciers retreated, the soils have had limited time to develop complex profiles typical of older soils.