A weathering score for sandy soil materials based on the intensity of etching of quartz grains

Summary A semi‐quantitative method is developed to assess the relative weathering of tropical sandy soils. Individual quartz sand grains are classified on the frequency and the size of dissolution etch pits in their surfaces, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A scale with five grain‐type classes reflecting increasing intensity of etching is defined, and the relative frequency of each of these classes in horizons of selected soil profiles is determined. To summarize the information contained in the frequency distribution a weighted score, the weathering score, is calculated. This score assesses the relative weathering of individual horizons, and it makes it easy to compare them with other horizons within the same or from other profiles. It is useful in detecting weathering trends and differences between horizons of tropical sandy soils.