Definition

The process where materials like minerals and salts are deposited in a lower layer of soil after being washed out from a higher layer.

Example

Illuviation can significantly affect soil fertility by altering the distribution of nutrients.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about illuviation in soil science?

Yeah, I think it has to do with materials moving down through the soil layers, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how nutrients can accumulate in one area because of it.

For sure, it really shows how complex nature can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Illuviation is formed from "illuvi-" (from Latin "illuvius", meaning to wash upon) and the suffix "-ation" (meaning the action or process of). The term refers to the process of materials being washed into a soil layer, typically from above, indicating a movement or deposition of substances.

Memory Tip

Think of materials being 'washed upon' ('illuvi-') during a process ('-ation') — that's how illuviation describes the movement of materials into soil.

Visually Confused Words