Loam is composed of which of the following?

Loam is a type of soil that is known for its balanced texture and fertility. It is composed of a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, which gives it desirable properties for growing plants. The combination of these three components allows loam to retain moisture while also providing good drainage and aeration for roots.

When looking at the components listed, sand contributes to the drainage and provides some aeration, while silt retains moisture and nutrients better than sand alone. Clay, though not explicitly mentioned in the options, is vital for holding nutrients and moisture, enhancing the overall quality of loam.

The correct answer indicates that loam includes not just sand and silt, but it typically also contains components like clay, which is essential for a well-rounded soil texture. Although gravel is not typically a major component of loam, the inclusion of sand and silt alongside the understanding that loam encompasses various textures justifies the choice that integrates multiple soil types. Thus, a comprehensive view of loam's composition reinforces the answer that it consists of these elements, leading to the conclusion that loam indeed is a mixture that can be broadly categorized with components like sand and silt.