Chemical Composition of the Soil

This kit allows students to perform chemical determinations on locally derived soils for the following components: percentage of water, soil organic content, pH (hydrogen ion concentration), reagent tests for calcium, carbonates, magnesium, and phosphates, and test paper determinations for potassium, sulfates, nitrate, ammonium, and iron. These chemical tests can support a variety of learning activities when used with earth science, environmental, and biological topics. Discussion questions are furnished on the value of each component to the various life-forms in and on the soil. Complete for 30 students working in pairs.