Relationships between quantity and intensity parameters of labile K in the Aridisols of Indian desert have been studied. Coarse textured soils occurring on sand dune, inte~ufll! and sandy plain generally contained low values of quantity parameters (KLKXXO), potential buffering capacityand K-potential than the alluvium derived medium andfine textured soils. However, in these two soil groups there was no regular pattern in the intensity parameters, viz. ARok and free energy of exchange (−ΔG). Multiple and step down regression analysis revealed (i) positive influence of siltandpHon labilepotassium and K adsorbed on nonspecific site; (ii) negative influence of silton PBCK and positive on K-potential. Among the studied soil attributes, most of the variation was accounted for (i) by silt and pH on KL, KO and PBCK; (ii) by silt and EC on K-potential and (iii) by pH, EC and org.C on -ΔG. Relationship of ARok positive with KL, KL, KO and negative with -ΔG indicated that higher intensity concentration was associated with higher quantity parameter and low energy of K removal. Positive relationship between PBCK and -ΔG indicate that soils low in K supply rate were associated with strongly bound K.
Quantity/intensity parameters, labile K, PBCK, K-potential, free energy of exchange of K-(Ca + Mg), Aridisols
