Cross-Section Sample
Definition
A soil sample collected to preserve the depth stratification of the profile, with distinct layers kept separate. Comparison of a questioned sample's characteristics against specific depth horizons can narrow the geographic match.
- Field type
- Soil sample preserving depth stratification
- Layer handling
- Distinct depth layers kept separate
- Use
- Comparing questioned sample against specific depth horizons
- Applies to
- Forensic soil and sediment comparison
Common questions
Why does keeping the depth layers separate improve a soil comparison?+
Soil composition changes with depth as organic content, minerals, and moisture vary between the surface and subsoil. Mixing layers together averages out those differences, so keeping them separate lets an examiner match a questioned sample to the specific horizon it likely came from.
How does a depth-horizon match help narrow a location?+
If trace soil on an item matches the mineral and organic profile of a particular horizon rather than the surface layer generally, it supports an inference that the item contacted a specific depth, such as a freshly dug area, rather than just any ground surface.
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