METHODS OF MAKING MECHANICAL ANALYSES OF SOILS

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A general discussion of the following methods is presented: elutriation, decantation, centrifugation, plummet, hydrometer and pipette. The hydrometer and pipette methods are the more popular. The hydrometer method is rapid and simple while the pipette method is considered to be the most accurate method yet devised. All of the above methods are based on Stokes'' law for the terminal fall velocity of a sphere through a viscous medium. The complete procedure for the pipette method as performed by the U.S.D.A. is described. Complete dispersion of the sample was deemed imperative for accurate analysis by any method. The acid treatment of soil samples, the removal of organic matter with H2O2, mechanical dispersion, and chemical dispersing agents are briefly discussed. The present U.S.D.A. and International classifications of soil separates are listed in tabular form.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: