Effect of varying static and changing moisture levels during incubation on the mineralization of carbon in soil

Abstract

The extent of mineralization of organic carbon (carbon dioxide production) during incubation at 28° C. of a sandy loam was determined (a) over 6–12 weeks at varying static moisture levels over the range from air-dried to waterlogged, (b) over a second 6-week period after changing soil moisture level, maintained at various moisture levels during the first 6-week period, to 50% saturation or to waterlogging.