Movement of salts in isolated soil columns.

Abstract

Movement of salt in a semi-arid soil (Hanwood sandy loam) was studied in isolated columns of soil one metre in diameter and four metres deep. Where a water-table was maintained approximately 60 cm. from the surface by the addition of rain-water to the surface, salt was washed out of the surface layers and did not return. Where a water-table was maintained one metre from the surface by the addition of water from below there was a small increase in the salt concentration of the surface 10 cm. of soil. In view of these results it is suggested that some circulation of water involving lateral movement is generally associated with salt accumulation that is commonly found under field conditions.