illuviációnak

Illuviációnak is a term used in soil science to describe the accumulation of mineral or organic substances in a particular soil horizon. This process occurs as these materials are leached from upper soil layers by percolating water and then deposited in lower layers. The term is derived from the Latin word "illuvies," meaning "washed in."

The illuvial horizon, often referred to as the B horizon, is characterized by higher concentrations of materials like clay, iron oxides, aluminum oxides, and humic substances compared to the horizons above it. The specific type of material that accumulates can vary significantly depending on the soil's parent material, climate, vegetation, and drainage conditions. For instance, in podzol soils, there is often an accumulation of iron and aluminum oxides, while in argillic horizons, clay is the dominant illuvial material.

Understanding illuviation is crucial for soil classification, interpreting soil properties, and assessing soil productivity. It influences soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and the suitability of land for agriculture and other uses. The depth and characteristics of the illuvial horizon provide valuable insights into the soil's formation history and its current environmental context.