Which of the following is not considered a factor of soil development?

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Prepare for the UCF GEO1200 Physical Geography Exam. Enhance your study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your test with confidence!

Soil development is influenced by several key factors, including organisms, climate, topography, and water. However, in the context of this question, the choice indicating that water is not considered a factor in soil development lacks consideration of its role in the overall process.

Organisms contribute to soil formation through the breakdown of organic material, which enriches the soil with nutrients. Climate affects the rates of weathering and organic matter decomposition, which are crucial for soil formation. Topography influences drainage patterns and erosion, which can directly impact soil characteristics.

While water is essential for life and plays a significant role in the soil ecosystem by influencing chemical weathering and nutrient transport, the notion here is that the primary factors of soil development are often framed in terms of organisms, climate, and topography. Thus, focusing on these primary influences helps clarify the distinguishing aspects of soil development.