Abstract Soil production, through bedrock weathering, regulates landscape evolution, biogeochemical cycles, and societal sustainability, yet quantifying soil production rates (SPRs) remains difficult due to limited tools. Here, we present a new framework for measuring SPRs based on uranium comminution ages and validate this approach at a deep granitic weathering profile in subtropical South China. Measured (234U/238U) activity ratios increase with depth in soil and remain stable in saprolite. Using a 1D massâtransport model, we resolve a SPR of 2.4 ± 0.4 m/Ma, which is consistent with independent estimates by Uâseries and 10Be dating. Set by inherent αârecoil processes, uranium comminution ages do not rely on environmental conditions (e.g., lithology and soil thickness) that present challenges to conventional tools such as 10Be. We expect our approach to contribute a tool that could expand measurements of SPRsâa key parameter of Earth surface systemsâto broader landscapes where SPR measurements have been limited.
Observations from the Little Bunker
Last updated: February 24, 2026 10:22 PM
Atmospheric COâ
429.9 ppm
+17.3
ppm/year
Atmospheric CHâ
1946.47 ppb
+6.49
ppb/year
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Peak: +1.73°C
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