Eluvial/illuvial coefficients of major elements and the corresponding losses and gains in three soil profiles

Abstract

Summary The major element compositions of three soil profiles from the north‐east of Scotland have been determined and from them losses and gains of major elements have been calculated. Eluvial/illuvial coefficients are also calculated and used to measure the intensities of soil processes. This information forms the basis of a discussion on the development of the profiles. The main process involves the decomposition of minerals, especially in the upper horizons, the loss of constituents to drainage and the translocation ofa few to the lower horizons.