Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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Code	Name	Description
ABCC	Acid Buffering Characteristic Curve	Shows the reaction of a soil to added acid i.e. the shape of the acid buffering curve.
AFP-3743	Air-Filled Porosity	AS3743 method for assessing the effective air-filled porosity of a potting mix.
AFP-S	Air-Filled Porosity - Soil	Air-filled porosity is the amount of pore space filled with air when the soil is at field capacity. Air-filled porosity is calculated as the percentage difference between total pore volume and water content at field capacity. Air-filled porosity of 10% or more is usually considered to be suitable for most plants.
Ag	Silver Atomic number 47 Atomic weight 107.9	Precious metal
Al	Aluminium Atomic number 13 Atomic weight 27	3^rd most abundant element on earth. Potentially toxic to plants and fish in soluble form.
Aluminium Toxicity Potential	Aluminium Toxicity Potential	High levels of soluble aluminium are often toxic to non-natives such as some pasture, crop and ornamental species. Toxicity can be expected when exchangeable aluminium levels are >2% and soils are strongly acid. Many native plant species are tolerant of soils with high concentrations of soluble aluminium. Lime or dolomite can be applied to raise soil pH and thus reduce exchangeable aluminium.
Alk	Alkalinity	Alkalinity is the amount of acid neutralising capacity measured as a percentage CaCO₃ (lime) in soils and milligrams of CaCO₃ (lime) per litre of water.
ANC	Acid Neutralising Capacity	Same as Alkalinity, LV-4454, LV-RH and CaCO₃ equivalence.
AOX	Adsorbable Organic Halogens	A measurement used in wastewater evaluation to indicate the overall level of organic halogens containing fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.
AR	Angle of Repose	Angle of repose is an engineering property of granular materials. The angle of repose is the maximum angle of a stable slope determined after poring the material onto a horizontal surface, when a stable conical pile is formed.
ARC	Alkalinity Reduction Calculation see also WAC	Calculation determines the acid injection rate required to neutralise alkalinity present in water. The calculation of alkalinity to be neutralised is based on the following formula: Current alkalinity – Desired alkalinity = Alkalinity to be neutralised Acidification reduces the amount of bicarbonates and carbonates in water. The acidification process results in the formation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).
As	Arsenic Atomic number 33 Atomic weight 74.9	A potentially poisonous metalloid occurring naturally. Arsenic and its several hundred compounds are used in pesticides, herbicides, insecticides and found in termite treatment and cattle dipping sites.
AS3743	Australian Standard 3743	Australian Standard for Potting Mixes.
AS4419	Australian Standard 4419	Australian Standard for Soils for Landscape and Gardens.
AS4454	Australian Standard 4454	Australian Standard for Composts, Soil Conditioners and Mulches.
Asbestos	Asbestos	A naturally occurring fibrous material asbestos has been used since Egyptian times for its fire retardant and insulation properties in products such as brake shoes, fibrous cement sheeting, gaskets and electrical insulation. Since 1980 many uses have been banned.
ASS	Acid Sulphate Screen	A suite of qualitative tests used to screen out negative acid sulphate results in large batches of samples.
B	Boron Atomic number 5 Atomic weight 10.8	An important trace element for some plant species. Toxic to plants in large amounts.
Ba	Barium Atomic number 56 Atomic weight 137.3	A soft silvery metallic alkaline earth metal with chemistry similar to calcium. It is used in the petroleum industry, X-ray diagnosis, as a rat poison, glass making, the rubber industry and many more industrial processes.
BD-4419	Bulk Density (repacked)	AS4419 method to assess the density of sample.
BD-USGA	Compacted Bulk Density	Compacted bulk density determined by the USGA standard method for sports and leisure turf soil samples.
Be	Beryllium Atomic number 4 Atomic weight 9.0	Strong, hard, grey-white metal. Lightest rigid metal. Its ability to absorb large amounts of heat makes it useful in spacecraft, missiles, aircraft, etc. Also used in lightweight metal alloys, X-ray tube windows, watch springs and sparkless tools.
Bio N	Nitrogen in Biosolids Assessment	An assessment of the total and available nitrogen content in a biosolids sample.
BOD	Biochemical Oxygen Demand	A measure of the quantity of oxygen consumed by micro-organisms during the decomposition of organic matter. Elevated levels of BOD lower the concentration of dissolved oxygen in a water body potentially endangering the resident aquatic life.
BP	Ball Plugging by Penetrometer	Determining the susceptibility of a golf ball to produce a fried egg lie in a bunker by measuring the resistance against the sand for the golf ball to plug. A laboratory test using a penetrometer.
BTEX	Benzene, Toluene, Ethyl benzene and Xylene	These are some of the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) found in petroleum derivatives such as petrol. TEX can have major affects on the central nervous system. Notorious due to the contamination of soil and groundwater that typically occurs near petroleum and natural gas production sites, and petrol stations and other areas with storage containing gasoline or other petroleum-related products.
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C	Carbon Atomic number 6 Atomic weight 12	A major building block of all organic living things present in the atmosphere as CO₂.
Ca	Calcium Atomic number 20 Atomic weight 40	An essential major nutrient for all living things. Associated with soil structural stability and good physical properties. Most common sources are lime and gypsum.
CaCl₂	Calcium Chloride	Extract used in soil pH assessment that gives an indication of the buffering capacity of the sample.
CaCO₃ SI	CaCO₃ Saturation Index	An indication of the capacity of a water to precipitate or dissolve lime (i.e. scale).
CaCO₃ Equiv	CaCO₃ Equivalence	A measure of the capacity of a soil to neutralise acidity. See also LV-4454, LV-RH, ANC and Alkalinity.
Ca:Mg	Calcium to Magnesium ratio	Calcium to Magnesium ratio. About 3:1 in all living things; 2:1 to 6:1 ideal in soils.
Cd	Cadmium Atomic number 48 Atomic weight 112.4	A relatively rare, soft, bluish-white, transition metal that occurs with zinc ores. Cadmium is known to accumulate in the body and cause cancer. Cadmium has wide industrial uses e.g. batteries and metal plating.
CGR	Calculated Gypsum Requirement	Gypsum (calcium sulphate) is recommended for two primary purposes; to facilitate the removal of excess sodium (Na); and, to build soil calcium (Ca) levels when a pH change is not desired. Commercial gypsum is not 100% efficient in displacing sodium, and SESL suggest using an 80% efficiency factor. Remember, gypsum alone does not solve a high sodium problem and sufficient irrigation water and/or enough rainfall is required to leach the displaced sodium out of the root zone.
CLR	Calculated Lime Requirement	Provides an indication of the amount of lime or dolomite required to reduce exchangeable aluminium to zero. The lime requirement calculates only the lime requirement in the surface 150mm of soil. It is not an estimate of the final pH that will be achieved. Plants differ in their aluminium tolerance.
Cl	Chloride Atomic number 17 Atomic weight 35.4	Not a plant nutrient but measured to determine its effect on the salinity of a sample. Often associated with sodium (sodium chloride = common salt). Chloride toxicity can occur in saline soils.
CN	Cyanide	Cyanide is a chemical compound. Of the many kinds of cyanide compounds those that can release the cyanide ion CN⁻ are highly toxic though not all compounds are toxic. Cyanides are used in mining as well as electroplating, metallurgy, jewellery, and photography. Cyanides occur naturally in almonds (marzipan taste) and in many animal forages.
Co	Cobalt Atomic number 27 Atomic weight 58.9	Cobalt has proven to be beneficial to at least some plants, but is essential in others such as legumes where it is required for nitrogen fixation. Cobalt deficiencies may occur in areas of volcanic soil, leached podzolic sands, sand loams derived from granite, calcareous windblown sands and ironstone gravel. Animals can be directly treated for cobalt deficiency.
CO₃	Carbonate	Carbonates in water and soils typically consist of precipitated calcium or magnesium carbonate (CaCO₃ or MgCO₃). The carbonate content of water is considered in conjunction with bicarbonates (HCO₃) for several important evaluations such as alkalinity, the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), adjusted sodium adsorption ratio (SAR.adj) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC). Carbonates will not be a significant component of water at a pH below 8.0, and will likely dominate at a pH above 10.3.
COD	Chemical Oxygen Demand	Commonly used to indirectly measure the amount of reducing substances in water likely to cause short term oxygen depletion in surface water (e.g. lakes and rivers), making COD a useful measure of water quality.
Colour	Colour	Part of the description of a soil used to identify and categorise soil colour using the Munsell colour system. Also used as a measure of the quality of water.
CU	Coefficient of Uniformity	CU = D₆₀/D₁₀, where an acceptable value is 2 to 4. A higher value indicates less particle uniformity. Optimum value is 2 to 3. A value < 2 is less likely to pack tightly and may indicate an unstable surface. Conversely a value >4 will have a tendency to pack tightly.
Cr	Chromium Atomic number 24 Atomic weight 52	A steel-grey, lustrous, hard metal that takes a high polish and has a high melting point. It is odourless, tasteless, and malleable. Metal alloys account for 85% of the use of chromium. The remainder is used in the chemical industry and refractory and foundry industries. Toxic only in the CrVI form.
Cr VI	Hexavalent Chromium	Cr VI compounds are those that contain the element chromium in the +6 oxidation state. Cr VI compounds can be toxic if orally ingested or inhaled and is an established human carcinogen. Often found in soil and groundwater at abandoned industrial sites.
Crack	Cracking Pattern	The cracking pattern of cricket wicket clays is important. If cracks are too far apart, grass growth will be poor because there will be insufficient air and water reaching the roots. If cracks are too close together the surface may become too crumbly. The impact of cracking is to reduce bounce and pace, and increase variability. It should also increase the amount of spin that a pitch will take, but turn in badly cracked pitches is likely to be inconsistent. A pattern of some medium cracks is preferable to only a few large cracks or many fine cracks.
Crush	Crushing Strength	A measure of the ultimate strength of a cricket wicket clay material at which disintegration by crushing occurs; the greatest compressive stress it can withstand without fracture. A good cricket wicket soil should have an adequate crushing strength (or cohesion) to withstand hundreds of ball impacts.
Crust	Crusting Potential	Crusting is the formation of a layer of dried, stiff sand on the surface of the bunker that severely decreases the playing quality of the bunker. Crusting is directly related to the percentage of silt and clay in the sand. As silt and clay increase, the severity of crusting increases.
Cu	Copper Atomic number 29 Atomic weight 63.5	An essential metal trace element for plant growth. At elevated levels can be harmful to aquatic life. Rarely a problem for terrestrial organisms.
C-value	Calorific Value	Is defined as the amount of heat generated by a given mass of fuel when it is completely burned.
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D₁₅	Bridging factor (computed from PSA-SH)	The criteria is based on engineering principles that rely on the largest 15% of the root zone particles bridging with the smallest 15% of the gravel particles. Smaller voids are produced and they prevent migration of root zone particles into the gravel yet maintain adequate permeability. The D₁₅ (gravel) is defined as the particle diameter below which 15% of the gravel particles (by weight) are smaller. For bridging to occur, the D₁₅ of the underlying layer (e.g. gravel) must be less than or equal to eight times the D₈₅ of the overlying layer (e.g. root zone). To maintain adequate permeability across the root zone/gravel interface, the D₁₅ (gravel) should be greater than or equal to five times the D₁₅ (root zone). Ideally the gravel should have a uniformity coefficient (Gravel D₉₀/Gravel D₁₅) of less than or equal to 3.0.
D₈₅	Permeability Factor (computed from PSA-SH)	The D₈₅ is defined as the particle diameter below which 85% of the soil particles (by weight) are smaller.
D₉₀	Uniformity Factor (computed from PSA-SH)	The D₉₀ is defined as the particle diameter below which 90% of the soil particles (by weight) are smaller.
DCIR	Drop Cone Impact Resistance	A measurement of physical stability against penetration resistance or how a playing surface will react to impact.
Disp-4419	Dispersibility	AS4419 method for determining the dispersibility of a soil. Dispersibility is an indication of poor physical properties in a soil. Usually improved by the addition of gypsum.
Disp%	Dispersion Percentage	The ratio of soil particles of <0.005mm that will naturally disperse to the total level of fine (<0.005mm) particles.
DO	Dissolved Oxygen field test	Dissolved oxygen measures the amount of gaseous oxygen dissolved in a water sample. Adequate dissolved oxygen is essential for respiration by aquatic organisms. It is measured as either mg/L or percentage saturation.
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EAT	Emerson Aggregate Test (see also mEAT)	A measure of the stability (slaking and dispersion potential) of a soil. The EAT is an eight-class classification of soil aggregate coherence (slaking and dispersion) in distilled water. Testing is done only on aggregated soils. Sand and gravels do not usually have suitable aggregates. The unstable class is Class (1) up to the most stable Class (8).
EC	Electrical Conductivity	Electrical conductivity indicates the amount of soluble ions (salt) in a sample. For soil, EC is determined on a 1:5 soil:water (EC_1:5)suspension and is prepared from the fine earth fraction of the sample. EC_1:5 is converted to electrical conductivity in a saturated extract (EC_e or EC_se) by multiplication of a conversion factor dependent on the field texture of the soil. ECe in saturated extract approximates soil salinity conditions.
ECEC	Cation Exchange Capacity expressed as a Sum of Cations	The capacity of a soil for ion exchange of positively charged ions between soil and soil solution. Cation exchange capacity is used as a measure of nutrient retention capacity, fertility and the capacity to protect groundwater from cation contamination.
EFF	Effluent Disposal Assessment for Subdivisions	A package of soil tests following the NSW State Government initiative regarding Environmental & Health Guidelines for On-Site Sewage Management for Single Households.
ESP	Exchangeable Sodium Percent	Indicates the percent of exchangeable sodium on the ECEC.
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F	Fluoride Atomic number 9 Atomic weight 19.0	Fluoride is the ionic form of fluorine, a halogen, and is found naturally in low concentrations in some drinking water sources and foods (e.g. tea). Hydrofluoric acid is used in the etching of glass and other industrial applications, including integrated circuit manufacturing. Fluoride containing compounds are commonly added to toothpaste, drinking water, prescribed treatments and other commercially available oral hygiene products because fluoride strengthens tooth enamel.
FC	Field Capacity	Field capacity is arbitrarily the amount of water remaining after a saturated soil material has drained against gravity. Field capacity is meaningful only for in situ soils that are relatively freely draining. In the laboratory, field capacity is generally accepted to be equivalent to the water content of an undisturbed core soil sample that has been drained by 10kPa suction in a pressure vessel.
FC-PWP	Field Capacity and Permanent Wilting Point	Assessed by Gravimetric Field Capacity and Permanent Wilting Point, these tests give an indication of the available water in a soil for a crop.
Fe	Iron Atomic number 26 Atomic weight 55.8	An essential trace element for plant growth widely present in soils and waters. Elevated iron in water causes aesthetic problems on plants and structures, and can also cause accumulation on irrigation equipment that leads to plugged emitters.
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GI	Gradation Index	GI = D₉₀/D₁₀ where an acceptable range is 3 to 6 but the preferred range is 4 to 5. Lower values indicate a higher potential for surface instability.
GLY-x	Glyphosate (where x denotes the matrix being tested)	Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide used for control of annual and perennial plants including grasses, sedges, broad-leaved weeds, and woody plants. It is moderately persistent in soil (estimated average half-life of 47 days). It is strongly adsorbed to most soils. Timing is critical when collecting plant samples for analysis. Glyphosate can be metabolised by the plant system very rapidly, drastically reducing the possibility of detecting even trace levels of the parent compound.
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Hard	Hardness	Hardness is an indication of the amount of calcium and magnesium in water and is expressed as milligrams CaCO₃ per litre. Water with hardness in the range of 100 to 150mg CaCO₃/L is considered desirable for plant growth. Excessive hardness may cause scaling of equipment and foliar deposits of calcium or magnesium carbonate under overhead irrigation.
HCO₃	Bicarbonate	Among the components of water alkalinity, bicarbonates are normally the most significant concern. Typically, bicarbonates become an increasing concern as the water increases from a pH of 7.4 to 9.3. Bicarbonate levels above 3.3meq/L (200ppm) will cause lime (calcium and magnesium carbonate) to be deposited on foliage when irrigated with overhead sprinklers. Similar levels of bicarbonates may also cause lime deposits to form on roots. High water alkalinity can be corrected with acid injection.
HC@1pt	Hydraulic Conductivity at 1 point	Saturated hydraulic conductivity after the soil has been compacted to a predetermined level.
HCCC	Hydraulic Conductivity Compaction Curve	Saturated hydraulic conductivity and bulk density at various compaction levels from low to high.
HC-USGA	Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity -USGA	Saturated hydraulic conductivity measured at very high compaction levels. One of the major tests performed in the evaluation of construction materials for golf greens built in accordance with the USGA method.
Hg	Mercury Atomic number 80 Atomic weight 200.6	A heavy, silvery transition metal, mercury is the only element that is liquid at or near room temperature and pressure. Mercury has been used in industrial processes for many centuries and can enter the environment from many sources. Accumulates in living organisms and down the food chain. Toxic to living things.
H₂O	Water	Scientific symbol for water.
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K	Potassium Atomic number 19 Atomic weight 39.1	An essential major nutrient for plant growth. Present at around 1 to 4 % in all living things. Involved in osmoregulatory and ionic balance.
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LAAT	Los Angeles Abrasion Test	Measurement of the degree of abrasion of sand particles The LA abrasion test should be performed on any materials suspected of having insufficient mechanical stability to withstand ordinary traffic.
LDP	Lime Deposition Potential	LDP is used to avoid or minimise the occurrence of lime spots on plant leaves, fruit and roots. Lime deposition is unsightly and detracts from the value of horticultural crops. Foliage and root deposition can be harmful to plant health.
Li	Lithium Atomic number 3 Atomic weight 6.9	An alkali metal that is a soft silver-white metal at standard temperature and pressure. It is the least dense solid element. 33^rd most abundant element on Earth, but because of its high reactivity, only appears naturally as a compound. Lithium is used in rechargeable batteries (cell phones and cameras), in high strength to weight ration alloys used in aircraft construction, and the pharmaceutical industry (it is a mood stabilising drug).
LP-4419	Large Particles-4419	AS4419 method for assessing the percentage of large particles in a landscape or garden soil.
LR	Leaching Requirement	High salt soils should be leached periodically to remove excess salts from the root zone. The leaching requirement is the percent of applied water that must pass through and beyond the root zone, in excess to the water needs of the plant, to keep the electrical conductivity (i.e. soluble salts) of the drainage water below a given level. Leaching requirement is calculated via the following formula: LR = ECiw/[(5 x ECe) – ECiw] Where: LR = Leaching requirement ECiw = Electrical conductivity of the irrigation water ECe = Electrical conductivity of the soil. The result of this formula is a decimal that must be multiplied by 100 to convert it to a percent. The salt content of the water used for leaching plays a role in determining the amount of water required to reduce soil salts. In general, the higher the EC of the water applied, the higher the leaching requirement.
LV-4454	Liming Value-4454	AS4454 method to determine the capacity of a sample to neutralise acidity. See also ANC, CaCO₃ equivalence, LV-RH and Alkalinity)
LV-RH	Liming Value by Rayment & Higginson method	Method to determine the capacity of a soil to neutralise acidity. See also ANC, CaCO₃ equivalence, LV-4454 and Alkalinity)
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MC-4454	Moisture Content-4454	AS4454 method to determine % water of a sample.
mEAT	Modified Emerson Aggregate Test (see also EAT)	The former Soil Conservation Service developed a modification of the EAT, with classes 2 and 3 being divided into subclasses. The modification involves including soil stability under high and low ionic solutions as well as distilled water. The subclass is put in brackets. For example, a Class 3 aggregate that disperses completely on working leaving only sand grains is recorded as Class 3(4). This method is especially suited to effluent disposal investigations.
Mg	Magnesium Atomic number 12 Atomic weight 24.3	An important exchangeable cation in soils and an essential major nutrient for plant growth present in the chlorophyll molecule. Magnesium is commercially important in aluminium alloys.
Micro E	Escherichia coli (E.coli)	Indicator species for water polluted with animal or human faecal matter.
Micro Entero	Enterococci	Common commensal organisms in the intestines of humans.
Micro FC	Faecal Coliforms	Used as an indicator of faecal pollution in water.
Micro FS	Faecal Streptococci	Hardy commensals of the gut and an indicator of recent pollution of water.
Micro S	Salmonella	Bacteria that can cause serious illness in humans.
Micro TPC	Total Plate Count (37^oC)	An indicator of the overall degree of microbial contamination in a sample.
Mn	Manganese Atomic number 25 Atomic weight 54.9	An essential trace element for plant growth present at toxic levels to plants in many soils.
Mo	Molybdenum Atomic number 42 Atomic weight 95.9	An essential micro/trace element for plant growth. Essential for nitrogen fixing in plants.
MRC	Moisture Release Curve	Measurement of the moisture retention of a soil at low tension (depth) to 400mm.
Mx	Screen of metals	Where x denotes the number of metals tested.
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N	Nitrogen Atomic number 7 Atomic weight 14	The most important nutrient for plant growth present in proteins.
Na	Sodium Atomic number 11 Atomic weight 23	Not essential for plant growth. Elevated levels cause slaking and dispersion of soils and have an adverse effect on good soil structure. Often associated with chloride (sodium chloride = common salt). Can be toxic to plants in high amounts. Involved in the osmoregulatory and ionic balance of living things.
Na-Haz	Sodicity Hazard	Reflects the effect that an irrigation water will have on the physical properties of the soil due to an accumulation of sodium. Sodium can affect plants in three ways: By destroying soil structure causing clay particles to disperse and reducing water movement (permeability) and aeration in the soil. By poisoning sodium sensitive plants when absorbed by either their roots or leaves. Calcium and/or potassium deficiencies may occur if the soil or irrigation water is high in sodium.
NAGC	Net Acid Generating Capacity	The measure of the potential of a soil to generate acid on oxidisation, usually as a result of presence of sulphides.
NDI-3743	Nitrogen Drawdown Index-3743	AS3743 method to assess the amount of nitrogen being consumed indirectly in a mix/media sample. An indication of the maturity of a composting process.
NDI-4419	Nitrogen Drawdown Index-4419	AS4419 method to assess the amount of nitrogen being consumed in a soil sample.
Nem	Nematodes	They are the most numerous multicellular animals on Earth. There are nearly 20,000 described species of nematodes classified but the species of interest to the turf & leisure grass and commercial crops are those that are parasitic to plant material.
NH₃	Ammonia	Gaseous form of nitrogen commonly denoting strongly alkaline and ammoniacal conditions.
NH₄	Ammonium-N	Ionic form of ammonia, one form of available nitrogen in soils.
NH4 + NO3-3743	Ammonium-N + Nitrate-N	AS3743 method to determine the available nitrogen forms in a sample of potting mix.
NH4 + NO3-4454	Ammonium-N + Nitrate-N	AS4454 method to determine the available nitrogen forms in composts, soil conditioners or mulches sample.
Ni	Nickel Atomic number 28 Atomic weight 58.7	An essential trace element to some plants. Metallic nickel is used in many industrial and consumer products, including stainless steel, magnets, coinage, and special alloys and metal plating. It is toxic in high concentrations and the amount of nickel that is allowed in products, which come into contact with human skin, is regulated.
NLWCx	Non-Liquid Waste Classification	Where x denotes the number of the package.
NO2	Nitrite-N	A oxygen reduced form of nitrogen in the environment.
NO3	Nitrate-N	One form of available nitrogen in soils, the most oxidised form.
NPK	Nitrogen, Phosphorus + Potassium	The major nutrients of a fertiliser product. Usually reported as percentages.
NSW Bio	NSW Biosolids Guidelines	NSW EPA Biosolids Guidelines used as the benchmark for heavy metal and organic contaminant content of many horticultural products.
NSW Site	NSW Site Auditors	A suite of tests that follow the guideline criteria as listed in the NSW EPA Site Auditors Guidelines.
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OCP	Organochlorine Pesticides	A screen of commonly used pesticides formulated with organochlorines as the base.
OM-LC	Organic Matter by Leco Carbon method	Total carbon assay by combustion method. OM is based on the assumption that soil organic matter = organic carbon x 1.755. Organic matter is a key component in assessing soil fertility, stability, hydrology and land condition.
OM-LOI	Organic Matter by Loss on Ignition method	AS4419 method to determine organic matter by loss on ignition. Suitable for samples with high organic matter content.
OM-WB	Organic Matter by Walkley Black method	Organic matter test designed to be used for soils with an anticipated organic matter content of <5%. The method measures the amount of organic carbon in plant and animal remains including soil humus and charcoal
OPP	Organophosphate Pesticides	A screen of commonly used pesticides formulated with organophosphates as the base. Organophosphate pesticides were developed to supersede organochlorine pesticides because they had a much shorter half-life in the environment.
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P	Phosphorus Atomic number 15 Atomic weight 31	An essential major nutrient for plant growth. Widely deficient in natural soils. Toxic at high levels to many native plants.
PAH	Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons	PAHs are a group of chemicals that are formed during the incomplete burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, or other organic substances, such as tobacco and charbroiled meat. There are more than 100 different PAHs. A few PAHs are used in medicines and to make dyes, plastics, and pesticides. Others are contained in asphalt used in road construction. They can also be found in substances such as crude oil, coal, coal tar pitch, creosote, and roofing tar. They are found throughout the environment in the air, water, and soil. They can occur in the air, either attached to dust particles or as solids in soil or sediment. Potentially carcinogenic.
Path	Pathology	The definition of pathology is the science of the causes and effects of pests and diseases. Testing offered by SESL involves the investigation of pests and diseases of plants only.
Pb	Lead Atomic number 82 Atomic weight 207.2	Lead is a dense, soft, malleable metal that is used in building construction, lead-acid batteries, bullets and shot, and is part of solder, pewter, and fusible alloys. Lead is a potent neurotoxin that can accumulate in soft tissues and bone through chronic exposure.
PCB	Polychlorinated Biphenyls	Most PCBs were manufactured as cooling and insulating fluids for industrial transformers and capacitors, and also as stabilizing additives in flexible PVC coatings of electrical wiring and electronic components. PCBs are classified as persistent organic pollutants and are carcinogenic to humans and animals.
PD	Particle Density	A measure of the individual particle density using glass pycnometer bottles.
PDIST	Porosity Distribution	Includes; volumetric water (capillary porosity), air-filled porosity and total porosity using USGA specified standard.
Perm-4419	Permeability-4419	AS4419 method for determining permeability in the laboratory.
Perm-C	Permeability Class	Calculation of permeability based on texture and structure.
Perm-FSI	Permeability – surface infiltration	Permeability measured in the field by surface infiltration method. Suitable for in situ soils.
Perm-FWell	Permeability - well permeability	Permeability measured in the field by well permeability method. Suitable for in situ soils.
Perm-L	Permeability - laboratory	Measured in the laboratory by field core method, replicating in-situ soil infiltration.
pH	pH	An indication of the acid/base balance of a sample.
pH (H₂0)	pH tested in water extract	Soil acidity/alkalinity test for pH (1:5 unless otherwise indicated).This is the activity of the negative log of the hydrogen ions in a suspension of 1:5 soil:water. It is the de facto standard pH measurement for most soil test interpretations; however, pH measured in 1:5 soil:water is sensitive to seasonal variations in the pH of soil solutions.
pH (CaCl₂)	pH tested in a calcium chloride extract	Additional soil test for pH. It gives an indication of the buttering capacity of the soil (1:5 unless otherwise indicated).
PP-4454	Plant Propagules	AS4454 method for assessing the presence of plant propagules (seeds, rhizomes, runners) in composts, soil conditioners and mulches.
Phenols	Total Phenolics	A family of aromatic alcohols that are widely found in nature as components of essential oils and tannins. Some phenols are germicidal and are used in formulating disinfectants and antiseptics. Certain phenols are carcinogenic.
PhenHerbs	Phenoxy Acid Herbicides	Part of the 2,4-D group of herbicides with complex mechanisms of action against broad-leafed plants. The phenoxy acid group of herbicides are probably one of the widest used herbicide chemical classes.
POA	Price on Application	Subcontracted analysis, the price of which should be checked from the supplier at the time of interest.
PO₄	Phosphate-P (Bray)	The ionic form of phosphorus also called orthophosphate. A measure of available phosphorus by Bray method. Bray phosphorus test is accepted as a probability indicator for phosphorus fertiliser response and critical levels of phosphorus in acid soils.
PO₄-O	Phosphate-P (Olsen)	A measure of level of the ionic form of phosphate-P in soil by Olsen method. Olsen phosphorus test is accepted as a probability indicator for phosphorus fertiliser response and critical levels of phosphorus in neutral or alkaline soils.
PRI	Phosphate Retention Index	A measure of the capacity of a soil to retain phosphate.
PS	Particle Shape	Measures angularity and sphericity of sand grains.
PSI	Phosphorus Sorption Index	A standard phosphate solution is added to soil. After equilibration, the phosphate remaining in solution is measured and the phosphate "fixed" by the soil is the calculated difference. High phosphorus sorption ratings indicate phosphate fixing to iron, aluminium or calcium compounds as well as certain organic-clay complexes. Large amounts of phosphorus fertiliser are required for plant response to fertiliser if phosphorus sorption is high. High phosphorus sorption is often associated with high anion exchange capacity of the soil.
PSI Curve	Phosphate Sorption Index Curve	Multiple measurements of the capacity of a soil to absorb phosphate at various concentrations.
PSA-SH	Particle Size Analysis – sieve and hydrometer	Soil consists of an assembly of discrete soil particles of various shapes, sizes and origins. The object of a particle size analysis is to group these particles into separate ranges of sizes and so determine the relative proportion by weight of each size range. The method employs sieving and sedimentation of a soil/water/dispersant suspension to separate the particles.
PSA-S	Particle Size Analysis – sieve only	Assessment of all particles larger than silt & clay. The method employs sieving of a soil/water/dispersant suspension to separate the particles.
PSA-H	Particle Size Analysis – hydrometer only	Assessment of the Silt and Clay fractions of a soil. The method employs sedimentation of a soil/water/disperant suspension and periodic measurement of the density of the suspension.
PSA-TD-4419	Top Dressing Particle Size-4419	AS4419 method for assessing the particle size (2mm sieve) of a top dressing soil sample.
PSG-4454	Particle Size Grading-4454	AS4454 method for assessing the particle size grading of a compost, soil conditioner or mulch.
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Resist	Resistivity	A measure of the resistance to a flow of electricity. Soil resistivity is a major factor affecting the corrosion rate. Generally, as soil resistivity decreases, the potential to corrode metals increases.
RSC	Residual Sodium Carbonate	RSC exists in irrigation water when the carbonate (CO₃) plus bicarbonate (HCO₃) content exceeds the calcium plus magnesium content of the water. Where the water RSC is high, extended use of that water for irrigation will lead to an accumulation of sodium in the soil. The results of this include: Direct toxicity to plants; Excess soil salinity (EC) and associated poor plant performance; and, Where appreciable clay or silt is present in the soil, loss of soil structure and associated decrease in soil permeability.
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S	Sulphur Atomic number 16 Atomic weight 32	An essential major nutrient for plant growth present in many proteins and biochemicals.
SAR	Sodium Absorption Ratio calculated from soluble cations	SAR measures the ratio of sodium ions to calcium and magnesium in a water sample. The SAR is used to predict the sodium hazard of waters and the likelihood of sodium to accumulate in the soil and cause structural degradation.
SAR.adj	Adjusted Sodium Absorption Ratio	The SAR.adj is a modification of the SAR calculation. It serves the same purposes, but is modified to include the effects of bicarbonates and carbonates, in addition to calcium and magnesium.
Sb	Antimony Atomic number 51 Atomic weight 121.8	Antimony is used in flame proofing, paints, ceramics, enamels, a wide variety of alloys, electronics, and rubber. It is potentially toxic to humans and animals.
Se	Selenium Atomic number 34 Atomic weight 79	An essential trace element in plants and animals. It is potentially toxic in large amounts, but trace amounts of it, forming the active centre of certain enzymes, are necessary for the function of all cells in (probably) all animals. Selenium requirements in plants differ by species, with some plants apparently requiring none. The largest use of selenium worldwide is in glass and ceramic manufacturing and in photocopying, photocells, light meters and solar cells.
Shrink/Swell	Shrink Swell Test	The shrink swell test otherwise known as Linear Shrinkage is used as the principal method for the assessment of the expansive potential of clay soils. It determines the decrease in length of a soil sample when oven-dried of the moisture content from the liquid limit. Shrinkage is expressed as a percentage of the original dimension.
Si	Silicon Atomic number 14 Atomic weight 28.1	Second most abundant element on earth. Present as silicates in all rocks often as aluminosilicans (clay). Present in many plants.
Sn	Tin Atomic number 50 Atomic weight 118.7	Tin is an oxidisation resistant metal and is found in many alloys and bonds readily to iron. It has been used for coating lead or zinc and steel to prevent corrosion. Tin-plated steel containers are widely used for food preservation, and this forms a large part of the market for metallic tin. Potentially toxic in large amounts.
SO₄	Sulphate-S	The common ionic form of sulphur in soils and water and the form taken up by plants.
sPOCAS	Suspension Peroxide Oxidation Combined Activity & Sulphate	1998 revised ASSMAC method for assessing the actual and potential acid sulphate activity of a soil by both the sulphur and acidity trails.
SSS	Sodium Sulphate Soundness	This test method is an accelerated weathering test that reflects the integrity and porosity of a rock to resist weathering and provides a comparable value that can be used to distinguish between suitable and unsuitable materials. This is accomplished by repeated immersion in saturated solution of sodium sulphate followed by oven drying to partially or completely dehydrate the salt precipitated in permeable pore spaces. The relationship between more durable and less durable materials provides a valid comparison and may form a basis for material and source selection.
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TCLP prep-v	Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure (for semi-volatile [sv] or volatile [v] compounds)	TCLP analysis determines the mobility of organic and inorganic analytes present in liquid and solid wastes. The TCLP analysis simulates landfill conditions. Over time water and other liquids percolate through landfills. The percolating liquid often reacts with the solid waste in the landfill and, may pose public and environmental health risks because of the contaminants it absorbs. The TCLP analysis determines which of the contaminants are present in the leachate and their concentrations.
TDSa	Total Dissolved Salts - calculation from EC	A sum of all the salts tested in the package. In water it illustrates the volume of salts in a sample and, in soil it aids the consultant to determine the limit of total chemical amendments that can be added to the soil.
TDSo	Total Dissolved Solids - filtration method	Total dissolved solids are an expression for the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances contained in a liquid that are in a dissolved form. The principal application of TDSo is in the study of water quality for streams, rivers and lakes, although TDSo is used as an indication of aesthetic characteristics of drinking water and as an aggregate indicator of presence of a broad array of chemical contaminants and salts. (See also TSS)
TEA	Total Elemental Analysis	A test package that determines the level of elements that may be present in a sample. Usually suited for fertiliser and biosolids samples. Offers an insight into the nutrients that the product can supply to plants and likely toxicities.
Temp	Temperature field test	A field test for monitoring water bodies.
Text-4419	Texture-4419	AS4419 method used to determine the texture of a soil sample.
TKN	Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen	TKN is the sum of NH₃ (Ammonia-N) + Organic Nitrogen. Organic nitrogen is derived from amino acids and proteins. It does not include the oxidised forms of Nitrite-N (NO₂) or Nitrate-N (NO₃).
TKN-C	Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen Calculation	TKN by calculation from TN (Leco) – (NO₂ + NO₃).
TN	Total Nitrogen	Total Nitrogen is the sum of all nitrogen forms or TN = TKN + NO₂ + NO₃.
TOC	Total Organic Carbon	TOC is a highly sensitive, non-specific measurement of all organics present in a sample. TOC detection is an important measurement in water because of the effects it may have on the environment, human health, and manufacturing processes. It can indicate the presence of dissolved organic matter from natural run off and human forms such as sewage contamination.
TOG	Total Oil and Grease	A non-specific test that detects biological lipids and mineral hydrocarbon compounds that are relatively non-volatile such as vegetable oils, animal fat, waxes, greases fuels and motor oils.
Tox-3743	Toxicity-3743	AS3743 method for assessing the toxicity of a potting mix to root growth.
Tox-4419	Toxicity-4419	AS4419 method for assessing the toxicity of a soil to root growth.
Tox-4454	Toxicity-4454	AS4454 method for assessing the toxicity of a compost to root growth.
TPH	Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons	An analysis of hydrocarbons in the C6-C36 range that includes, petrol, diesel, jet fuel, kerosene, oil and greases.
Tr	Trace Elements	Iron, copper, manganese and zinc
TSS	Total Suspended Solids	TSS is a measure of the particulate weight obtained by separating suspended solid particles from a water sample using a filter. It does not include dissolved substances. (see also TDSo)
Turb	Turbidity	Turbidity is a measure of the degree to which the water looses transparency due to the presence of suspended particulates generally as a result of erosion, waste discharge, sediment disturbance, urban runoff and/or algal growth. Turbidity is considered a good measure of the quality of water.
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U	Uranium Atomic number 92 Atomic weight 238.0	Toxic element used in nuclear power stations, nuclear medicine applications and weapons.
UCLA	California Greens Method	The California Greens method was developed in the mid-1970s at the University of California, Davis. A green is made with a pure sand root zone above the subsoil and a drainage system of pipe surrounded by gravel. The sand, gravel and construction are set to specifications. The advantage of the California green is its cost; they also do not suffer the compaction and drainage problems of soil-based greens. These greens can be difficult to grow-in because fertility is difficult to manage in the sand root zone.
USGA	United States Golf Association	Premium body for research and specifications for the design and maintenance of golf courses.
USGA Sieve	USGA Sieve Fractions (12,2&1)	Sieve analysis to USGA specifications to evaluate the suitability of a sample primarily used for golf-course construction, also for general drainage purposes.
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V	Vanadium Atomic number 23 Atomic weight 50.9	Vanadium is one of the 26 elements commonly found in living things. It has various industrial uses but is mainly used as a steel additive and in alloys such as stainless steel for use in surgical instruments and tools, rust resistant and high speed tool steels, and mixed with aluminium in titanium alloys used in jet engines and high speed airframes.
VC-4454	Visual Contaminants-4454	AS4454 method to measure plastic, glass, and other visual contaminants in a compost, soil conditioner or mulch.
VOC	Volatile Organic Compounds	Volatile organic compounds are compounds that have a high vapour pressure and low water solubility. Many VOC are human-made chemicals that are used and produced in the manufacture of paints, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. Typically industrial solvents or by-products produced by chlorination in water treatment, such as chloroform. They are often components of petroleum fuels, hydraulic fluids, paint thinners, and dry cleaning agents. VOC are common ground water contaminants.
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WAC	Water Acidification Calculation see also ARC	Calculation determines the acid injection rate required to neutralise alkalinity present in water. The calculation of alkalinity to be neutralised is based on the following formula: Current alkalinity – Desired alkalinity = Alkalinity to be neutralised Acidification reduces the amount of bicarbonates and carbonates in water. The acidification process results in the formation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).
WBD	Waxed Block Density	A laboratory method to determine the density of a soil by displacement. Only suitable for soil where intact peds are present.
Wett-3743	Wettability-3743	AS3743 method for assessing the time taken to rewet a mix/media sample after drying.
Wett-4419	Wettability-4419	AS4419 method for assessing the time taken to rewet a soil sample after drying.
Wett-4454	Wettability-4454	AS4454 method for assessing the time taken to rewet a compost, soil conditioner or a mulch after drying.
WHC-3743	Water Holding Capacity-3743	AS3743 method for assessing the water holding capacity of a potting mix at 12cm container height.
WHC-M	Water Holding Capacity at 1 meter	Measure of moisture content at one meter tension depth.
WHC@1pt	Water Holding Capacity at 1 point	Measure of moisture content at a single nominated specific tension depth from 0 to 100cm.
WHC-T	Water Holding Capacity	Assessment from texture.
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Zn	Zinc Atomic number 30 Atomic weight 65.4	An essential trace element for plant growth. Elevated levels can be toxic. Often deficient in natural soils. Many urban soils contain potentially phytotoxic levels.