Nitrogen isotope ratios in surface and sub-surface soil horizons
Nitrogen isotope analysis of surface soils and soil-derived nitrate for selected chernozemic and luvisolic soils showed mean delta $sup 15$N values of 11.7 and 11.3, respectively. Isotope enrichment of the total N reached a maximum in the lower B horizon. Sub-soil parent material samples from the one deep profile included in the study indicated a delta $sup 15$N value (NO$sub 3$-N) of $sup 1$$/$$sub 3$ that of the Ap horizon, at a depth of 180 cm. The delta $sup 15$N of sub-surface soil horizons containing residual fertilizer N were low (- 2.2) compared to the surface horizon (9.9). The data reported from this preliminary survey suggest that the natural variations in $sup 15$N abundance between different soils and horizons of the same soil reflect the cumulative effects of soil genesis and soil management. More detailed knowledge and understanding of biological and other processes which control N isotope concentrations in these soils must be obtained before the data reported can be interpreted. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
- NSA Number:
- NSA-33-007653
- OSTI ID:
- 4160080
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Symposium on isotope ratios as pollutant source and behavior indicators, Vienna, Austria, 18 Nov 1974; Other Information: See STI/PUB--382; CONF-741120--. Orig. Receipt Date: 30-JUN-76; Related Information: Isotope ratios as pollutant source and behaviour indicators
- Country of Publication:
- IAEA
- Language:
- English
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