The distribution of trace elements in some South Australian red-brown earths

Abstract

The maximum, minimum, and mean values for six trace elements in four soil horizons are reported for 14 profiles of red-brown earths from South Australia, and the pattern of variation and distribution of these elements discussed. The elements studied could be arranged in a series of decreasing mobility in the soil, the order being cobalt > copper > gallium > vanadium > molybdenum > manganese. The most mobile elements had greater variations within profiles and, except for manganese, greater variations between profiles. Gallium, vanadium, and molybdenum contents were correlated with the amount of clay present in all surface soils, as well as in individual profiles, whereas cobalt and copper contents were correlated with clay only in individual profiles.