Kivilähtöinen

Kivilähtöinen is a Finnish term that translates to "stone-derived" or "originating from stone." It is primarily used in geology and soil science to describe soils or parent materials that have formed directly from the weathering of bedrock. This contrasts with soils that might be derived from transported materials like glacial till, alluvium, or marine sediments, which have been moved from their original location.

Soils classified as kivilähtöinen are typically found in areas where bedrock is exposed at or near the surface, and the soil profile has developed in situ. The characteristics of these soils are heavily influenced by the type of bedrock from which they originate. For example, soils derived from granite will have different mineralogical and chemical properties than those derived from limestone or basalt. The weathering process breaks down the rock into smaller particles, forming sand, silt, and clay, which, along with organic matter, constitute the soil.

Understanding the kivilähtöinen nature of a soil is important for various applications, including agriculture, forestry, and environmental studies. It helps in predicting soil fertility, drainage characteristics, and suitability for different land uses. It also provides insights into the geological history of a region and the processes that have shaped its landscape. The term emphasizes the direct lithological connection between the soil and the underlying rock formation.