Abstract
The distribution of ammoniun ions from a concentrated source in the soil is calculated with a computed model based on chromatographic theory. The analytical solution for the chromatographic equation with convective transport in a pistonlike flow, for a non linear adsorption isotherm, is compared with computer simulation model results and actual experimental data from soil solumns.
Adsorption isotherms for the exchange of Ca++ by NH4 + ions in the range of 0.01 to 6 eq NH4/I were obtained. The isotherm are described by a modification of Freundlich's isotherm.
Ammonium displacement is a frontal movement. The resulting concentration profile is a uniform zone of influence within which ammonium concentration is close to 2/3 of the soil C.E.C. A relatively narrow transition zone exists between the zone of influence and the bulk soil.
Good correlation was obtained between experimental and computed ammonium concentration distribution along the soil profile after leaching.
The results presented in this work indicate that a quantitative estimation of the extent to which ammonium ions are transported from application site, and the processes following this transport, can be obtained.
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Present address of the first author: Universidad Catolica de Chile, Dept. of Soils, Chile.
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Gurovich, E., Avnimelech, Y. The distribution of ammonium ion from a localized source into the soil. Plant Soil 46, 101–111 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00693117
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00693117