Pedocal is a geological term that refers to a type of soil rich in calcium carbonate. The word is spelled as /'pɛdəkɑl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "p" is pronounced as in "pea", followed by the "e" sound as in "bed". The "d" is pronounced as in "dog", followed by the short "o" sound as in "hot". The next syllable starts with the "k" sound as in "kit", followed by the "a" sound as in "father", and ends with the "l" sound as in "lemon."
Pedocal is a term used in geology and soil science to describe a specific type of soil that is rich in calcium carbonate, primarily in the form of calcium carbonate nodules or caliche. It is commonly found in arid or semi-arid regions with limited rainfall and high evaporation rates.
Pedocal soils typically have a light-colored surface layer that is often composed of silty or sandy material. This layer is rich in calcium carbonate, which gives it a characteristic pale color. Beneath this layer, there is often a darker subsoil composed of clay or fine silt.
The formation of pedocal soils is influenced by several factors, including climate, vegetation, and parent material. The arid conditions in these regions lead to low organic matter content and limited leaching, which allows calcium carbonate to accumulate over time. This process is often facilitated by the presence of calcium-rich parent material, such as limestone or dolomite.
Pedocal soils are known for their high fertility and agricultural productivity, as they often contain sufficient amounts of calcium for plant growth. However, their porosity and permeability can vary, affecting their water holding capacity and drainage ability.
In summary, pedocal is a type of soil characterized by its high calcium carbonate content, which is prevalent in arid or semi-arid regions. It possesses distinctive features such as a light-colored surface layer and is fertile, making it suitable for certain agricultural practices.
The word "pedocal" is derived from the Greek words "pedon", meaning "soil" or "ground", and "kalyx", meaning "lime" or "chalk". The term "pedocal" is used in soil science to refer to a type of soil that contains a high percentage of calcium carbonate or lime.