Halomorphism

/ˌhæloʊˈmɔrfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The process by which soil develops specific characteristics due to the presence of salt, affecting its physical and chemical properties.

Etymology

From Greek 'halos' (salt) + 'morphe' (form, shape) + '-ism' (state or process). The term emerged in soil science during the 20th century to describe how salt accumulation shapes soil development and structure.

Kelly Says

Desert soils often undergo halomorphism, creating bizarre crusty surfaces that actually repel water—the opposite of what you'd expect from salty soil in a place where water is scarce!

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