If a soil has an exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) of 30%, how would it be classified?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about soil classification based on its Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP). ESP is a measure of the proportion of sodium ions to other cations (like calcium and magnesium) on the soil's exchange sites. The question requires us to identify the correct classification of soil with an ESP of 30% according to standard soil science definitions.
Answer
The soil would be classified as sodic.
A soil with an Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) of 30% is classified as sodic. Sodic soils are defined as having an ESP greater than 6% to 15%, depending on the source.
Answer for screen readers
A soil with an Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) of 30% is classified as sodic. Sodic soils are defined as having an ESP greater than 6% to 15%, depending on the source.
More Information
Sodic soils can have poor physical properties, such as low permeability and poor soil structure, which can negatively impact plant growth.
Tips
It is important to note that the threshold for sodic soils can vary depending on the specific definition being used.
Sources
- 4. SODIC SOILS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT - fao.org
- Identifying dispersive (sodic) soils | Agriculture and Food - agric.wa.gov.au
- Sodic & Alkaline Soil - Soil Quality Knowledge Base - soilqualityknowledgebase.org.au
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