What concept is primarily concerned with how soils interact with environmental factors affecting plant growth?

The concept that focuses on how soils interact with environmental factors affecting plant growth is edaphology. This branch of soil science examines the influence of soil properties on living organisms, particularly plants. It investigates how soil composition, structure, nutrient availability, moisture levels, and other soil characteristics affect the growth and health of plants. By understanding edaphology, one can better appreciate the relationship between soil types and the types of vegetation they can support, thus making it a critical area of study in agriculture, horticulture, and environmental management.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms within a particular ecosystem or the entire planet, including variations among species, ecosystems, and genetic differences. While it relates to plant growth, it does not specifically address the soil-plant interaction.

Geology studies the Earth's physical structure, composition, and changes over time. While it can influence soil formation, it does not directly address how soils interact with environmental factors for plant growth.

Ecology is the broader study of organisms and their interactions with each other and their environments. However, it encompasses a wide range of topics beyond just soil interactions, including water, air, and habitat factors.

Thus, edaphology is distinctly focused on the vital role of soil in plant development, making