Loam is composed of which of the following?

Loam is a soil type that is highly regarded for its suitability for plant growth. It is characterized by a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay, which allows it to retain moisture while still draining well. The composition of loam typically involves about 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay, creating a fertile environment that supports a wide variety of plants.

The inclusion of gravel in the composition is less common for loam, as gravel tends to create a coarser soil structure, which does not retain moisture as effectively. While sand, silt, and clay are integral components of loam, the option that presents sand, gravel, and silt, while depicting a mixture conducive to certain soil types, doesn’t accurately capture the optimal balance that defines loam. Therefore, the answer highlighting sand, silt, and gravel reflects a broader classification but does not specifically focus on the quintessential properties of loam.