Geochemical distribution of major and trace elements in hydromorphic soil profiles developed on recent alluvium

• Published in: Catena (Giessen) 2024-10, Vol.245, p.108324, Article 108324
• Main Authors: Osinuga, Olufemi Adewale, Kagbare, Victory Tega, Samuel, Ezekiel Abiodun, Sulaimon, Janet Oluwafunmilayo, Ojo, Anuoluwapo Ayomide, Taoreed, Lateefat Abisola
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Elemental ratios; Geochemistry; Geological formation; Humid climate; Pedogenesis
• ISSN: 0341-8162
• DOI: 10.1016/j.catena.2024.108324

•Geochemical concentrations and distribution of major and trace elemental oxides were governed by lithologic factors.•Silicon, Fe, Al, Ca, and K showed the higher affinity to parent material.•The profiles elemental ratios revealed both an oxic and anoxic depositional environment.•Volatility of elements depends on the modes of occurrence, the intensity of the fire and the duration. Geochemical composition and distribution of major elements study is vital in terms of investigating the major soil forming compounds and to know the fate of trace elements in soils. Particle size distribution (PSD), pH, organic carbon (OC), and major and trace elements of hydromorphic soils formed on recent alluvium in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun state, Nigeria were analysed using standard procedures. Three profiles pits were dug based on the mapping units identified, and samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Data were subjected descriptive statistics and Pearson’ correlation coefficients using IBM SPSS version 27. The PSD was dominated by sand content, followed by clay and silt, and soil pH in KCl was strongly acid (3.17–4.30) and pH in H2O was moderately acid (4.74–5.80), while OC contents were low to moderate (1.22–6.69 g/kg). The major elemental results showed higher concentration of SiO2 (>50 %) connotes presence quartz, feldspar, and clay minerals. Manganese, Cu, Ba, Zr, and Zn have higher concentrations among the trace elements. Major elements ratios (SiO2/Al2O3, K2O/Al2O3) showed moderate weathering stage, while trace elements ratios (Ni/Co and Cu/Zn) revealed deposition under humid conditions and anoxic environment. The statistical analysis revealed that most elements have skewness closed to zero except MgO and K2O. Correlation coefficients between the elements are positive and significant (p