SOIL CHEMISTRY: PRINCIPLES PROCESSES AND ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Soil chemistry examines the chemical composition, reactions, and processes occurring within soils and their influence on soil fertility, plant growth, and ecosystem functioning. It integrates knowledge of mineralogy, organic matter interactions, nutrient availability, pH dynamics, and contaminant behavior. Understanding soil chemistry is essential for sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and remediation of polluted soils. This article provides an overview of fundamental soil chemical properties, key processes governing soil nutrient dynamics, and their implications for soil health and ecosystem services.