5.2. Significance in Soil-Water Systems

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the symbol ρ represent in mass concentration?

   Hint

   Think about the basic definition of concentration.

2. 2.

   What is a mass fraction?

   Hint

   Consider how percentages are calculated.

3. 3.

   What does ρA2 signify?

   • Concentration of chemical A in soil
   • Concentration of chemical A in water
   • Concentration of chemical A in air

   Hint

   Recall the different indices for different media.

4. 4.

   True or False: Mass concentration is defined as the mass of a substance divided by its volume.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the formula for density.

5. 5.

   If given specific measurements of mass concentrations in different soils, calculate the expected equilibrium concentration of a chemical in pore water. Explain your reasoning.

   Hint

   Draw upon knowledge of Henry's Law and mass concentration.

6. 6.

   Discuss and outline a remediation strategy for contaminants based on the principles learned about partition constants and soil properties.

   Hint

   Think about how properties of the contaminated sites will influence your approach.