Homeschool World Forum

Buggzz · User Joined: 15 Dec 2009 Posts: 13

The biggest problem I have understanding the reasons for a particular pH of a soil, is finding an article that communicates the basics well.

I find that w/out the basic knowledge of a subject, it is difficult to makes sense of all related data.

Any ideas or connections would be appreciated. I am off for the winter now and need to occupy my time productively. Smile

Theodore · Posted: Tue Dec 22, 2009 1:48 am Post subject:

Some of this is simple enough to understand:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soil_pH
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Buggzz · User Joined: 15 Dec 2009 Posts: 13

The concept of ANC came up in the first few lines, and described as a 'buffering agent. Key on the highlight and the additional info of ANC comes up. This is what I can't begin to figure out just what is the point the author is trying to make. :

"...Decomposition of organic material releases carbon dioxide and thus increases the amount of dissolved carbon dioxide. An increase in carbon dioxide decreases pH but has no effect on ANC. Organic acids, often expressed as dissolved organic carbon (DOC), also decrease pH and have no effect on ANC. Soil water in the upper layers usually have higher organic content than the lower soil layers. Surface waters with high DOC are typically found in areas where there is a lot of peat and bogs in the catchment. "

From there they talk about number 3 'the aluminum factor' and say that's a bit trickier.
So I guess the author assumes I understand something that makes sense of his explanation. What am I missing? Thanks.

Theodore · Posted: Wed Dec 23, 2009 1:48 am Post subject:

ANC was the part that confused me too. How can you make something more acidic and not affect its ability to resist changes in acidity? We need a chemist in here.
_________________
The Farming Game - Software Edition for Mac and PC
The board game has sold over 350,000 copies worldwide, garnered many awards, is used by over 2,000 schools, and is used extensively by homeschoolers.

Buggzz · User Joined: 15 Dec 2009 Posts: 13

Well, thanks for trying. I will just keep reading various aspects of it, until the eureka moment strikes.