One‐dimensional image analysis of soil structure. I. Principles

SUMMARY A one‐dimensional (1‐D) image analysis system, ANOSOL, has been developed which uses test lines to measure the distances in a random direction across and between pore space in images of impregnated soil blocks. Suitable strategies are discussed for both random and systematic sampling using test lines. A comprehensive set of interrelated 1‐D parameters are derived for use as structural indices and their stereological relationship to 3‐D parameters is discussed. The intercept length distributions for both pore space and solid can be adequately described using a three‐parameter model consisting of the weighted sum of two negative exponential functions. The advantages of the parameters chosen are discussed with references to those used by other workers. The importance of choosing, as structural indices, parameters that are stereologically related to the desired 3‐D parameters is also discussed.