Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
seasonal variation in the concentrations of the different solutes in both solutions
although the maxima and minima did not coincide for all solutes. The more mobile
monovalent ions have their maximum concentrations in winter, while the bivalent ions
and manganese have their highest concentrations in spring and summer. Finally, the
considerable concentrations of several different types of organic materials should also
be noted since their movement and precipitation in the soil are important factors in
the development of these spodosols, and of other soils.
1.1.2.2
Pedogenetic importance
In terms of soil processes, the transport of organic and inorganic materials of
pedogenetic importance in the soil solution is well established (McKeague
et al
., 1986).
Table I.7 shows that the elements Fe, Al and Si are all mobilised into the soil solution
and this is often a consequence of the complexes they form with organic materials of
various types. Considerable variation in the properties of soil solutions occurs, depending
on the pH, cation exchange capacity, redox potential, organic matter concentration,
the microflora and vegetation present and whether fertilisers have been applied.
