Granulometry,cluster analysis and spatial distribution of manganese contaminated soils,Kgwakgwe, southeastern Botswana |
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Authors: | Georges‐Ivo E. Ekosse Paul S. Fouche Ntonghanwah Forcheh |
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Affiliation: | 1. X‐Ray Diffraction Unit, Faculty of Science , University of Botswana , P.B. 0022, Gaborone, Botswana;2. School of Agricultural and Environmental Science , University of Limpopo , P.B. 1106, Sovenga 0727, South Africa;3. Statistics Department , University of Botswana , P.B. 0022, Gaborone, Botswana |
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Abstract: | The particle size distribution (PSD) of 400 Mn contaminated soil samples was established, and generated data were statistically analysed and spatially presented. The PSD for the 53 µm – 4 µm size fraction soil samples ranged from 11.05 to 100 wt %, whereas that for < 4 µm was from 0.3 to 30 wt %. Texturally, samples were dominantly silt loam, although silt and sandy loam were also present, as well as loam, loamy sand and clay classes. Six clusters were identified with cluster one being the most dominant occurring in sandy loam, silt loam and loamy sand. The < 53 µm fraction had three dominant areas, and the < 4 µm fraction had several unevenly presented populations as reflected in the maps. Because of its spatial distribution, the < 4 µm fraction may pose hazards to human health. Furthermore, predominance of Mn limits land use to subsistence agriculture with possibly low crop yield. |
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Keywords: | Soil Manganese Iron Granulometry Sand Silt Clay Cluster analysis |
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