Abstract
Abstract. The effect of ploughing on the vertical and horizontal distribution of 137Cs was investigated at two fields in Bavaria from 1987 to 1991. Soil samples from four layers in eight plots along a transect were taken in each field after each ploughing and harrowing. Total activities and activity concentrations were evaluated separately for 137Cs derived from Chernobyl and from global fallout of weapon testing. In 1987 137Cs from global fallout was already well mixed in both fields because of the long residence time in the soil. 137Cs derived from Chernobyl, however, was distributed rather inhomogeneously in vertical as well as in horizontal directions. The coefficient of variation of the vertical activity concentrations within the Ap horizon decreased continuously from the first to the fourth ploughing, in one field by a factor of five. The number of ploughings necessary to attain a uniform vertical distribution of Chernobyl‐derived caesium was three and four in the two fields. Along the transects inhomogeneities caused by the spatial variability of the deposition of radiocaesium during the Chernobyl fallout were not removed by ploughing.
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.
