Multiple regression method for estimating rates of weathering and soil formation in watersheds

Abstract

A multiple regression method for estimating rates of soil formation in watersheds was described. Distributions of seven major elements (Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, and Si) among rocks, soils, river water, precipitation, and vegetation in a watershed were formulated in seven mass balance equations, which include rates of rock weathering and soil formation as unknown variables. Multiple regression analysis gave one set of the most probable mean values of rates of weathering and soil formation in a watershed.

Key Words:

• geochemical mass balance
• multiple regression analysis
• rate of soil formation
• rate of weathering
• watershed management