By reading this application note, you will learn how to determine the phosphate content present in soil samples using METTLER TOLEDO’s EasyPlus UV/VIS spectrophotometer.
Phosphorus: A Key Element for Plant Growth
Soil is composed of many chemical components ranging from organic, inorganic, and metals. Phosphorous commonly found as phosphate in soil is the eleventh most abundant element on the surface of the earth. Phosphorous as phosphate occurring in soil plays a vital role in the growth of plants.
Phosphorus Enriched Soil
The recommended level of phosphorous as phosphate in soil ranges from 25–50 mg/L. In case the content of phosphate falls below the advisable limit, utilization of fertilizers is mandatory in order to enhance the total phosphate content in the soil samples. The doses of fertilizer have to be adjusted to the conditions of the environment and nutritional requirements of the plants.
How to Determine the Phosphate Content in Soil?
The amount of phosphate content in the soil samples can be easily determined using METTLER TOLEDO’s EasyPlus UV/VIS spectrophotometer and the Spectroquant® Merck Phosphate test kit (Merck 1.14842). This method is analogous to ISO 8466–1 and DIN 38402 A51. Orthophosphate ions present in the sample react with ammonium vanadate and ammonium heptamolybdate to form an orange-yellow molybdovandophosphoric acid. This acid concentration can be determined spectrophotometrically by measuring its intensity at 410 nm.
This application note includes information on:
- Sample preparation and procedures
- Chemistry
- Solutions and chemicals
- Instruments and accessories
- Results and discussion
- Remarks
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