Effect of Soil Texture on Nitrate-Nitrogen in Groundwater
Author Information
Author(s): Witheetrirong Yongyoot, Tripathi Nitin Kumar, Tipdecho Taravudh, Parkpian Preeda
Primary Institution: Asian Institute of Technology
Hypothesis
The quantity of nitrogen leached into groundwater through loam was higher than through clay.
Conclusion
The study found that nitrate-nitrogen levels were higher in clay soils compared to loam due to excess fertilizer application.
Supporting Evidence
- Nitrate concentration in groundwater increased more than three times after fertilization.
- Coarser soils allow nitrate to leach into groundwater faster.
- Farmers in the area apply excess fertilizers, leading to higher nitrate levels.
Takeaway
This study looked at how different types of soil affect the amount of nitrogen that gets into groundwater, finding that clay soil holds more nitrogen than loam.
Methodology
Optical reflectance data from remote sensing was used to analyze nitrate-nitrogen levels in groundwater across different soil textures.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from the reliance on remote sensing data and the specific agricultural practices in the study area.
Limitations
The study relied on indirect methods due to the lack of bare soil test sites in Thailand.
Participant Demographics
The study area included various agricultural lands in Nakhon Pathom province, Thailand.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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