One-dimensional image analysis of soil structure. 11. Interpretation of parameters with respect to four forest soil profiles

SUMMARY The one-dimensional (1-D) image analysis system described in the companion to this paper (Part I) was used to analyse horizontal sections of pore space (≥ 180 μm) in four forest soil profiles with impeded drainage. Parameters were interpreted with respect to structure in the images. Mean solid intercept length is inversely proportional to extent of pore space. It was longer for blocky structures than massive structures, which had extensive, fine pore space. It decreased with decreasing ped size, increasing development and increasing intrapedal porosity. The solid intercept length distribution separated the effects of intrapedal porosity. For blocky structures, the pore intercept length distribution indicated the sizes and quantities of fissures and intrapedal pores. All profiles had an horizon with blocky structure with lower porosity owing to greater distance between interpedal pore space and low extent of intrapedal pore space. The deeper, more massive horizons had extensive, fine pore space separating fine aggregates.