Elemental Composition of Soil Primary Particles in Alfisols of Northern Karnataka

Study on total elemental composition of soil primary particles in Bailmadapura micro-watershed of Gadag district, Karnataka was conducted during 2022–23. Horizon-wise soil samples were collected and analysed for major and trace elemental content in sand, silt and clay. Alfisol pedons 1 and 2 revealed the various patterns in elemental composition across horizons and soil fractions. Elemental analysis showed significant variations in the composition of major elements (Si, Al, Fe, Ca, Mg and K) and trace elements (Zn, Pb, Sr and Cu) among soil fractions (sand, silt, clay) at different depths. In Pedon 1, the upper horizon (Ap) showed higher concentrations of Si, Al and Fe in the sand fraction, with erratic distribution of Ca, Mg, P and S. The Bt1 horizon exhibited changes in element content, particularly in Fe concentration and the distribution of trace elements. The Bt2 horizon displayed further alterations, with Si and Al maintaining consistent patterns, while trace elements exhibited different distributions influenced by soil forming processes. In Pedon 2, similar trends were observed, emphasizing the influence of soil fraction and depth on elemental composition. The findings highlighted the complexity of interactions involving mineralogical composition, organic matter content, redox conditions, and pH in shaping elemental distribution in Alfisols.