IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

IIARD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (IJGEM )

E-ISSN 2504-8821
P-ISSN 2695-1878
VOL. 11 NO. 2 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijgem.vol.11.no2.2025.pg1.7

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Analysis of Physicochemical Properties of Soils in Sub-Saharan Region of Sokoto State, Nigeria

S A Yarima, and A M Danjuma

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Abstract

This study investigates the physicochemical properties of soils in Gwadabawa Local Government, Sokoto State, Nigeria, focusing on their implications for hydrocarbon degradation and environmental management. Soil samples were collected from the top 0–15 cm layer across various sites and analyzed for parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), phosphate content, and particle size distribution. The results indicated that the soils are slightly acidic, which fosters microbial activity essential for the natural biodegradation of hydrocarbons. The EC values suggested low salinity and ion concentration, indicating minimal hydrocarbon contamination at the sampled sites. However, low phosphate levels could limit microbial enzymatic processes critical for effective hydrocarbon degradation. The physical analysis revealed predominantly sandy soils with an average sand content of 66.62%, silt at 25.32%, and clay at 8.44%. This sandy texture enhances permeability and hydrocarbon mobility, increasing the potential for contaminants to spread through the soil profile and potentially reach groundwater. While the soil structure supports oxygen and nutrient penetration vital for microbial activity, the low clay content reduces the soil's capacity to adsorb and immobilize hydrocarbons, complicating remediation efforts.

keywords:

Hydrocarbon degradation, physicochemical properties, sandy texture, microbial

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