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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 26, 2025

Soil Lysimeter Excavation for Coupled Hydrological, Geochemical, and Microbiological Investigations
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Soil elemental changes during human decomposition.

Lois S Taylor1, Adrian Gonzalez2, Michael E Essington1

  • 1Department of Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America.

Plos One
|June 13, 2023
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Human decomposition significantly alters soil chemistry, releasing various elements like potassium and sulfur. Different elements show distinct temporal patterns, influenced by soil interactions and microbial activity.

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Related Experiment Videos

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic science
  • Environmental science
  • Biogeochemistry

Background:

  • Mammalian decomposition creates nutrient hotspots, but elemental cycling beyond carbon and nitrogen is understudied.
  • Human decomposition's impact on soil elements requires detailed investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate temporal changes in dissolved mineral and trace elements in soil during human decomposition.
  • To characterize elemental deposition and cycling patterns in human decomposition hotspots.

Main Methods:

  • A four-month human decomposition trial was conducted.
  • Dissolved elemental concentrations in soil solution were quantified, focusing on mobile and bioavailable fractions.

Main Results:

  • Elements were grouped based on temporal patterns: cadaver-derived (Na, K, P, S), soil-influenced (Ca, Mg, Mn, Se, B), and late-release (Fe, Cu, Zn, Co, Al).
  • Element persistence varied based on chemical form, soil exchange dynamics, microbial degradation, and soil acidification.

Conclusions:

  • Human decomposition significantly impacts soil elemental composition over time.
  • Understanding these elemental dynamics is crucial for forensic and environmental science applications.