Silt is a fine soil particle, smaller than sand but larger than clay, typically ranging from 0.002 to 0.05 millimeters in diameter. Silt particles are smooth and tend to feel soft and powdery when dry. Soils with a high silt content have good water retention but can be prone to compaction, which can affect root growth and soil aeration. Silt is often found in river valleys and floodplains, contributing to fertile soils that support agriculture.