ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Duricrust

Duricrust is like a hard layer of rock that forms on top of the soil. It's kinda like when you make a sandcastle and it gets wet, and then it dries out in the sun and becomes really hard. But instead of sand, duricrust is made from minerals and stuff in the soil that react with water and air and become hard and crusty.

Duricrust can form in different ways, like from salt buildup or from minerals like iron and silica. It can be found in lots of different places, like deserts, savannas, and even in some forests. Sometimes, people use duricrust as building material because it's so tough and durable.

But if you're playing outside and you come across duricrust, you might have a hard time digging through it to make a hole or plant a seed. It's pretty tough stuff! But it's also important because it helps protect the soil underneath from erosion and keeps nutrients in the ground for plants to grow.