Regression Models of Acid–Base Properties of Peat Swamps as Operational Criteria for Their Chemical Classification

Abstract

Quantitative relationships between the active acidity \({\text{(p}}{{{\text{H}}}_{{{{{\text{H}}}_{2}}{\text{O}}}}})\) of peat soils on the one hand and their exchange acidity (pH_KCl), nonexchangeble (total potential) acidity (1M CH₃COONa extract), contents of exchange cations and alkaline-earth bases, and base saturation degree, on the other hand, have been identified in the form of a linear function. Coefficients of the resultant regression equations are provided. The high predictive capability of the produced regression models is proven using independent data as examples. The use of regression equations eliminates the need for time-consuming chemical analytical works, thus making it possible to operatively classify wetlands and peat soils on the basis on their chemical properties: saturation with alkaline-earth bases and pH value. The botanical composition may also be used as a reliable indicator, provided that the degree of peat decomposition is low and subject to special knowledge of morphology and anatomy of sphagnum mosses and vascular swamp plants.