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Humic Substances are a class of organic compounds that are key components of humus, the major organic fraction of soil, peat, and coal. They are also found in many upland streams, dystrophic lakes, and ocean water.

Composition

Humic substances are complex and heterogeneous mixtures of polydispersed materials, which include humic acids, fulvic acids, and humin. They are formed by the microbial degradation of dead plant matter, such as lignin. They are very resistant to further biodegradation. The precise properties and structure of a given sample depend on the water or soil source and the specific conditions of extraction. Nevertheless, the average properties of humic substances from different sources are remarkably similar.

Functions

Humic substances have a number of functions in the environment. They play a crucial role in the soil fertility, promoting the conversion of a number of elements into forms available to plants. Furthermore, they modulate the biological activity of natural and synthetic toxic compounds in the soil. Humic substances also influence the retention and mobility of metals in the environment and the interactions of these metals with plants and microorganisms.

Environmental Impact

Humic substances are considered to be a key component of the carbon cycle. They are one of the largest carbon reservoirs in the environment and play a significant role in the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. They also have a significant impact on the chemistry of soil and water, influencing the mobility and bioavailability of nutrients and pollutants.

Research

Research into humic substances has been ongoing for many years, with a focus on understanding their structure, properties, and roles in the environment. This research has implications for a range of fields, including soil science, agriculture, environmental science, and geochemistry.

See Also

• Humus
• Soil fertility
• Carbon cycle
• Environmental science

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