A quaternary soil sequence in the Kennet Valley, central southern England

摘要: Abstract The field characteristics, texture, mineralogy and micromorphology of the soils four chronologically separate river terraces River Kennet are described. on three uppermost have illuvial (palaeoargillic) horizons, which been intensely disturbed by periglacial activity. These horizons overlain similarly disrupted eluvial mixed with aeolian silts derived from outside catchment. most probably result interglacial pedogenesis under climatic conditions warmer wetter than at present, whilst material was added to during last glacial period (Devensian). lowest youngest terrace is characterised an undisturbed (normal argillic) soil developed in loams predominantly silts. Consequently, it postulated that owe their characteristics a phase postglacial pedogenesis. results illustrate several phases can be recognised, provide important information Quaternary development area. This especially significant where floral, faunal, or archaeological evidence environmental changes unavailable.