The geochemistry of molybdenum in the coastal area soils of the state of Pernambuco, Brazil

Abstract

Eleven soil profiles of the typical soils of the region known as "Zona Litoral-Mata" of the State of Pernambuco were studied. The amount of molybdenum in the surface horizons ranges from 2.13 to 0.06 ppm with an average of 0.90 ppm. Most of the soils are perfectly normal in respect of molybdenum content. The largest proportion of exchangeable molybdenum is found in the surfacial horizon, probably adsorbed by the soil organic matter. By taking into account the pH and the extractable molybdenum, the soils studied were classified into two groups: 1. Deficient soils and 2. Borderline soils.