Modern Concepts of the Genesis of Podzols

Abstract

Abstract The major processes suggested in the literature for the formation of Podzols have been reviewed. Theories on the formation of negatively charged humus‐protected sols and of metal‐organic coordination complexes, including chelates, and on the immobilization of the sesquioxides and organic matter in the B by microbial activity, sorption and oxidation have been presented. It is concluded that, while the theories of complex formation and possibly chelation appear reasonable, more factual information is required on the constitution of the reacting organic substances and on the precipitation mechanism involved.