Geophysical methods to assess soil characteristics

Publication date: 14/06/2021
Extent: 36 pages

Contributions by: Ho-Chul Shin, Rothamsted Research, UK; Guillaume Blanchy, Lancaster University, UK; Ian Shield, Peter Fruen, Timothy Barraclough and Christopher W. Watts, Rothamsted Research, UK; Andrew Binley, Lancaster University, UK; and William R. Whalley, Rothamsted Research, UK

Chapter synopsis: This chapter explores the use of geophysical methods to assess soil physical characteristics. The chapter begins by reviewing the geophysical properties of soil, such as clay content and organic matter content. It then moves on to discuss the electromagnetic induction method and its application, then examines electrical resistivity and its application. Acoustic-to-seismic coupling is also reviewed in terms of creating a model and its application. The chapter concludes by providing an overview of the several geophysical methods that can be used to measure various characteristics of agricultural soils.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2020.0079.12