Distributions of Radionuclides (U & Th) and Pedogenic Characteristics as Indicators of Wet and Warm Climate during the Holocene in the Western Part of the Upper Gangetic Plain, India

Abstract

Distribution of radionuclides in the soil samples, Infra-red stimulated luminescence dating techniques, electrical conductivity, pH measurements and grain size analysis of soils of the region between the Ganga and Yamuna Rivers (in the Upper Gangetic plain) have been studied. Soil characteristics are highly sensitive to climate changes and the degree of soil development indicated by higher thicknesses of A-Horizons, solum and clay accumulation in b-horizon are higher during the periods 1.7 -3.6 ka and 6.5 -9.6 ka, marked by wet and warm climates (inferred from earlier studies), the former period being marked by higher degree of soil development than the later. Radionuclides are significantly in higher amounts in soils developed during the period 1.7 -3.6 ka, thus indicating that this was the wettest and warmest period, so these radionuclides could be released by weathering of primary rocks and be preserved in sedimentary rocks deposited during that period.