Revival: Fractals in Soil Science (1998)

The application of fractals and fractal geometry in soil science has become increasingly important over the last few years. This self-contained and timely book was designed to provide detailed and comprehensive information on the current status of the application of fractal geometry in soil science and on prospects for its future use. With a detailed and specific introductory chapter particular attention is paid to comparing and contrasting fractal and fragmentation concepts. Some uses of fractals such as to quantify the retention and transport properties of soils to describe the intricate geometry of pore surfaces and macropore networks or to elucidate the rooting patterns of various plants are discussed. Applications of fractals in soil science are both relatively recent and in constant evolution. This book reflects accurately existing trends by allowing sharp differences among the viewpoints expressed in contributed chapters to be presented to the reader in one self-contained volume.