Spatial patterns of cadmium contents related to soil heterogeneity

To investigate Cd behavior in a heterogeneous soil, soil samples were taken along a transect in a field. Total Cd content, Cd concentration in solution, and soil properties controlling Cd sorption were measured. The scale and degree of variability of these parameters were assessed using statistical and spectral analysis. No substantial correlation was found between total Cd and Cd in solution. However, with a scaled sorption model that accounts for effects of pH and organic matter content the variability of total Cd was predicted well as a function of measured concentrations and soil properties. Apparently, total Cd contents of this soil are primarily controlled by the organic matter content and pH.