calcification

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calcification The process of redeposition of secondary calcium carbonate, from other parts of the soil profile, which if sufficiently concentrated may develop into a caliche, kunkar, or calcic horizon (all similar and usually comprising more than 15 per cent weight of calcium carbonate in more than 15 cm soil thickness). Calcification involves limited upward and lateral movement of calcium salts in solution, and downward movement in less wet periods. When occasionally leaching is deeper, some but not all of it may redissolve.

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