X-ray technique to evaluate pedon and erosion variability of an Ava map unit

An uneroded map unit of Ava soil was examined to determine the presence of and variability in depth to the upper and lower boundaries of the argillic horizon, the second parent material, the horizon of maximum X-ray mass absorption coefficient, the fragipan, the A and E horizons, and the clay maximum prior to accelerated erosion. Twelve pedons from six pits were examined to address the depth variability of selected soil features. Where accelerated erosion occurred on a landscape segment, the lower boundary of the horizon of maximum X-ray mass absorption coefficient, as well as the lower boundaries of subsoil parameters, could be used as reference markers to provide a basis for estimating soil loss from erosion. -from Authors