Salt enters the soil through a variety of natural and environmental processes.
Natural Processes
- Physical Weathering: The breakdown of rocks and minerals, which naturally contain salts, can release these salts into the soil.
- Chemical Weathering: Chemical reactions can also break down rocks, releasing salts in the process.
Environmental Factors
- Seawater Submergence: When soil is submerged in seawater, the salt content in the water can directly infiltrate and increase the soil's salinity.
- Rising Sea Levels: As sea levels rise, there is a greater chance of saltwater seeping into low-lying areas, further contributing to soil salinity.
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Weathering | Breakdown of rocks into smaller particles, releasing contained salts. |
| Chemical Weathering | Chemical reactions that break down rocks, releasing salt compounds. |
| Seawater Submergence | Direct introduction of salt into the soil through the flooding of seawater. |
| Rising Sea Levels | Increased seepage of saltwater into low-lying coastal areas, increasing soil salinity. |
In summary, salt enters the soil primarily through natural weathering processes of rocks and minerals and environmental factors related to seawater intrusion, such as submergence and rising sea levels, as described in the provided reference.
