The book is a comprehensive collection of user-friendly analytical techniques for characterizing soil physical, mineralogical, and chemical properties, as well as determining the nutrient content of plants. The methods are presented in a clear and concise manner, with detailed descriptions of the analytical procedures and the basic principles underlying the analysis. Additionally, the book addresses common queries and provides solutions for users in general and students in particular. The functioning of various analytical instruments used in soil and plant analysis is also discussed, along with basic concepts of different analytical methods. This book will be a valuable resource for students at agricultural universities and institutions, as well as scientists and technicians working in soil analysis laboratories.

Susanta Kumar Pal: M.Sc (Ag), Ph.D: Professor, Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Bidhan Chandra KrishiViswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, Nadia, West Bengal, India

1. Collection and Processing of Soil Samples 2. Soil Texture and Textural Class 3. Density and Porosity of Soil 4. Surface Area 5. Soil Aggregate Analysis 6. Soil Moisture 7. Flow of Water in Soil 8. Soil Consistency 9. Soil Air 10. Soil Tempearture 11. Soil Penetrabilty 12. Thermal Analysis 13. Infrared Spectrometry 14. X-Ray Diffraction Analysis 15. Basics of Quantitative Chemical Analysis 16. Instrument and Its Principle of Functioning 17. Soil Reaction 18. Electrical Conductivity and Water Soluble Salt 19. Soil Organic Matter 20. Ion Exchange Capacity and Exchangeable Bases 21. Nitrogen in Soil 22.Phosphorus in Soil 23.Potassium in Soil 24.Sulphur in Soil 25.Micronutrients in Soil 26.Some Soil Polluting Heavy Metals 27.Plant Analysis