Physicochemical properties of a solonetzic toposequence

Surface, charge, and pore properties of three profiles of a solonetzic toposequence: Mollic Solonetz (top), Salic Solonetz (in-between), and Haplic Solonetz (bottom) were studied. A trial of finding relations between the above and other chemical and physical parameters characterizing salt-affected soils was undertaken. Physicochemical soil properties differed among the studied profiles and horizons. Upper, eluvial A horizons differed to the greatest extent among the profiles studied and the lowest C horizons appeared to be most similar. Surface and pore characteristics were mostly governed by organic matter and clay content. Organic matter and clay fraction increased soil surface area and amount of variable charge. The surface area increased also with amount of exchangeable bases and the CEC of the soils. Sodicity and alkalinity, mainly exchangeable sodium percentage and less the pH, appeared to reduce mesopore radii and pore complexity (fractal dimensions).