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Amazing natural chemistry: What is the transformation process of organic matter in soil?
Organic matter is the main source of carbon-based compounds in nature and is found in soil and water. These substances mainly come from the excrement and remains of plants and animals, and some are generated through non-living chemical reactions. Through the polymerization of cytokines, tannins, cutin and lignin, the basic structure of organic matter is formed. They play an important role in the flow of nutrients in the environment while helping to enhance the surface's water-holding capacity.
Formation of organic matter
The interior of living organisms is mainly composed of organic compounds. They secrete or emit organic matter during life and are degraded by bacteria and fungi after death. These processes are all part of the formation of organic matter: whether it's fallen leaves from plants, excrement from animals, or the decomposition of dead organisms. Due to different sources, transformation modes and environments, the composition of natural organic matter varies, which also makes their biophysical and chemical functions in different environments different.
Functions of natural ecosystems
Organic matter is indeed widespread in ecosystems and is recycled through the decomposition process of soil microbial communities. These microorganisms are key to nutrient availability, and after degradation, organic matter is carried into soil or waterways with water flow. Not only do they provide nutrients for organisms, they also act as buffers in aqueous solutions to maintain a neutral pH in the environment.
Organic matter not only provides necessary nutrients but also helps neutralize acid rain.
Source loop
Organic matter in soil comes from groundwater. When groundwater saturates soil or sediment, organic matter can flow freely between different phases. Groundwater has its own natural sources of organic matter, including organic matter deposits such as source rocks and coal, organic matter in soil and sediments, and organic matter seeping into the ground from rivers, lakes, and marine systems. While some biomass does not migrate, others remain static, changing over millions of years.
The role of soil organic matter
Organic matter in soil comes from plants, animals and microorganisms. In forests, fallen leaves and wood materials fall to the ground and are known as organic materials. When these materials are purified to the point where they are no longer identifiable, they become soil organic matter. When organic matter breaks down into a stable substance that is resistant to further decomposition, this substance is called humus. Humus enhances the soil's ability to retain water and nutrients, helping plants grow.
The increase in soil organic matter promotes plant growth and is the basis of ecosystems and agriculture, especially in organic agriculture.
Initial effect
The initial effect refers to the dramatic changes in soil organic matter conversion caused by moderate intervention in the soil. This phenomenon is usually caused by pulses or continuous input of fresh organic matter and results in an accelerated rate of mineralization. This increase in rate is often associated with enhanced microbial activity, showing greater energy and nutrient availability. Although the initial effect was first discovered by Löhnis in 1926, the concept still shows its complexity and still requires more in-depth research.
The impact of the decomposition process
The decomposition process of organic matter is an important indicator of the decay of biological materials. It mainly relies on the enzymes of bacteria and fungi for catalysis. Without the presence of these microorganisms, the decomposition process would be greatly slowed down. There are many factors that influence the decomposition of organic matter, including its chemical properties and environmental parameters. The ability of the microbial community to obtain energy is highly related to the energy status of soil organic matter, which in turn affects its preference for different organic matter.
Microbial communities tend to preferentially mineralize high-energy organic matter and ignore those with low energy density.
Organic matter in water
Organic matter in water can be divided into dissolved organic matter (DOM) and suspended organic matter (POM). Both forms usually depend on whether they can pass a certain size filter. Organic matter in water is important for water and wastewater treatment, natural aquatic ecosystems, environmental restoration, and more.
Challenges of water purification
The ability of natural organic matter to hold water does pose the challenge of water purification. In water, organic matter can combine with metal ions and minerals, and these combinations can form blockages during the filtration process. While chlorine treatment can reduce these residues, it can create new substances that can negatively impact water quality.
Thinking and Outlook
The diversity of natural organic matter and its importance in ecosystems make us rethink our connection with nature. Do these subtle changes prompt us to delve deeper into the cycles and balances of nature?
