Abstract
The micromorphological characteristics of young alpine soils (< 230 years old) from two chronosequences in Norway are examined. Lenticular and alveolar microstructures, together with matrix granules, suggest that cryic processes are operative in subsurface (Ae, B, C) horizons. Organic matter accumulation, decomposition and incorporation are evident in surface (L, F, Ah) horizons, whereas hydration of biotite, and translocation of silt and fine-sand sized mineral particles, organic material and sesquioxides seem major processes in subsurface (Ae, B) horizons. Consideration of depth-related differences of quantitative micromorphological data has allowed assessment of the intensity of these pedogenic processes. Chronofunctions are constructed for each soil horizon from the quantitative data. This approach allows soil development at the two sites to be assessed in a temporal context. Steady-state conditions do not appear to be attained within the 230 years available for soil development at these sites.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
