Geochemistry at the Earth's Surface, Softcover reprint of the original 1st ed. 2014 Movement of Chemical Elements

Geochemistry at the surface of the earth is dominated by two somewhat antagonistic forces: chemical reactions which attempt to attain a steady state (equilibrium) and geological movement of materials in time and space which changes the parameters that control chemical equilibrium. Another aspect that is extremely important to earth surface geochemistry is the effect of plants on the chemical and physical stability of materials (soils). Plant systems in fact work against the normal chemical changes (loss of silica, potassium, etc.) and the normal physical changes (stabilizing fine grained materials (clays) in the surface zones to avoid erosion). Biological effects are clearly seen in redox effects in the various parts of the earth surface movement cycle; soil formation, stream transport, sedimentation. This book attempts to outline these different parameters and their interactions as they affect earth surface geochemistry in order to give a better understanding of movement and accumulation of elements at the surface of the earth.

Geology and chemistry at the surface.- Elements in solution.- Weathering: the initial transition to surface materials and the beginning of surface geochemistry.- Soils: Retention and movement of elements at the interface.- Transport: water and wind.- Sediments.

Provides basic tools to understand relations between plants and soil

Provides basic methods to interpret x-ray diffraction spectra used to identify clay minerals

The book could serve as a basis for innovative research as well as for existing lectures for students