The particle density of organic matter is typically 0.9 g/cm³.
Particle density is a measure of the mass of soil solids per unit volume of solids. It's a crucial property in understanding soil composition and behavior. While mineral particles generally have a higher density, organic matter, being less dense, contributes significantly to the overall soil properties.
Understanding Particle Density
Particle density is distinct from bulk density, which includes pore space within the soil. Particle density solely focuses on the solid components. Different soil components have varying particle densities:
| Soil Component | Typical Particle Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|
| Mineral Particles | 2.60 - 2.75 |
| Dense Minerals | Up to 3.0 |
| Organic Matter | 0.9 |
The Significance of Organic Matter Density
-
Lightweight Contribution: The lower particle density of organic matter compared to minerals means that it contributes a large volume with a relatively small mass.
-
Improved Soil Structure: Organic matter, due to its density, aids in creating porous soil structure with better aeration and water infiltration.
-
Impact on Soil Calculations: When calculating soil porosity or other related soil properties, using the correct particle density for organic matter is crucial for accurate results.
Practical Insights
- Soil amendments: Understanding the density of organic matter helps in selecting proper amendments to improve soil physical characteristics.
- Soil testing: During soil testing, taking into account the density of organic components provides a more comprehensive analysis of soil makeup.
- Modeling: Particle density values are crucial when creating models for soil processes like water movement and nutrient transport.
