noun
- the process by which soil becomes enriched in iron and aluminum oxides through weathering and leaching in tropical climates
Usage: geology; soil science
Examples
- Laterization occurs most commonly in tropical regions with high rainfall and temperatures.
- The red color of many tropical soils results from laterization processes.
- Scientists studied laterization in the Amazon rainforest to understand soil formation.
- Heavy monsoon rains accelerate laterization in Southeast Asian soils.
- The laterization process can take thousands of years to complete.
- Agricultural productivity often declines in areas affected by extensive laterization.