How do soils in urban areas generally differ from rural soils?

In urban areas, soils often undergo significant disturbances due to construction, landscaping, and the presence of various pollutants. These activities can lead to soil contamination from heavy metals, oils, chemicals, and other harmful substances. The alteration of the land surface during urban development frequently disrupts the natural soil horizons, leading to changes in soil structure, composition, and function. Consequently, urban soils may not only be disturbed but also potentially hazardous to plant growth and environmental health.

Additionally, urban soils can differ significantly in their physical properties compared to rural soils due to factors like compaction from heavy machinery and increased human activity, which can further exacerbate issues of contamination and disturbance. The unique dynamics of urban environments create a soil ecosystem that is quite different from that found in more natural, rural settings.