PNNL

Abstract

The macroscale behavior of the soil depends on the mechanical properties of individual aggregates. The structural dynamics of the whole soil is defined by the architectural organization and attributes of ever-changing aggregates as the basic units of soil structure development. Aggregates influence root growth and seedling emergence (DeFreitas et al., 1996), soil moisture retention (SMR) and airflow (Watts and Dexter, 1997), and SOC sequestration and dynamics (Denef et al., 2004). Mechanical properties of aggregates are indicative of response of the soil system to tillage, compaction, and plant growth. The properties of aggregates may differ from those of the whole soil due to the dynamics of aggregate formation (Horn, 1990; Zhang, 1994). Understanding of mechanical properties of aggregates is cru- condicial to explain the macroscale functions of soil for plant growth (DeFreitas et al., 1996).