The influence of edaphic factors on spatial and vertical distribution of radionuclides in soil

Abstract

This chapter summarises the edaphic factors affecting radionuclide spatial and vertical distribution in different soil types, with special emphasis on typical soil types in Serbia. The correlations between radionuclide and stable element content in soil and soil characteristics (particle size fractions, pH, carbonate content, organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, saturated hydraulic conductivity, specific electrical conductivity) are presented. These results provide insight into the main factors that affect radionuclide migration in the soil, which contributes to knowledge about radionuclide behaviour in the environment and factors governing their mobility within terrestrial ecosystems.