illuviation
/ɪˌluːviˈeɪʃən/
noun
- The process by which materials like clay, minerals, or organic matter are washed down from upper soil layers and deposited in lower layers.
- Geologists study illuviation to understand how landscapes change over time.
- Illuviation creates distinct layers in mature soil profiles.
- Heavy rainfall can accelerate illuviation in sandy soils.