Soil Chemistry

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction to Soil Chemistry. 2. Components of Soil. 3. Chemistry of Soil Nutrient Cycle. 4. Soil pH. 5. Soil Salinity. 6. Chemistry of Sodic Soils. 7. Soil Horizon Layers. 8. Soil Moisture Monitoring. 9. Soil in Pasture Systems. 10. Soil Contamination. 11. Methods of Soil Treatment. Bibliography. Index.

“Soil is key to sustaining life affecting air and water quality, the growth of plants and crops and the health of the entire planet. The complex interplay among organic and inorganic solids, air, water, microorganism and plant roots in soil is the subject of soil chemistry, a reference pivotal to understanding of soil processes and problems.

Soil chemistry studies the chemical characteristics of soil. Soil chemistry is affected by mineral composition, organic matter and environmental factors. A Knowledge of soil chemistry is paramount to predicting the fate, mobility and potential toxicity of contaminants in the environment.

The present book illustrates the fundamental principles of soil chemistry with respect to environmental reactions between soils and other natural materials and heavy metals pesticides, industrial contaminants and salts. Timely and comprehensive discussions of applications to real-world environmental concerns are a central focus if this established text. The book will be an excellent introductory resource for students studying this crucial topic.”(jacket)