Buffered vs. Unbuffered Extractants: Impact on Chemical and Physical Parameters in Soil and Sediment Leachability
Soil ScienceSoil and sediment are natural resources that are important for the growth of plants and the existence of aquatic ecosystems. In order to understand the chemical and physical properties of these resources, it is necessary to analyze soil and sediment samples. One way to do this is through the use of extractants, which help to
The Science Behind Humanure: How It Improves Soil Texture
Soil ScienceHuman dung, or human waste, has been used as a fertilizer for centuries. In addition to its nutrient content, humanure has been shown to improve soil texture, making it “fluffier” and more conducive to plant growth. This article explores the science behind why manure has this effect on soil texture. The role of organic matter
Exploring the Myth: Can Base Saturation Percentage Exceed 100% in Soil Science?
Soil ScienceSoil science is a complex discipline that involves the study of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. One of the important soil properties is cation exchange capacity (CEC), which represents the ability of the soil to hold positively charged ions such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Base saturation percentage (BSP) is a measure
How eluvial process determines the difference in colour of soil layers
Soil ScienceAsked by: Willie Russell Which soil horizon is dominated by eluvial processes? The E horizon, the zone of greatest eluviation, is very leached of clay, chemicals, and organic matter. Because the chemicals that color soil have been leached out, the E layer is very light in color. It usually occurs in sandy forest soils in