In the previous article we explored what happens when soil loses access to oxygen. As pore spaces close and water lingers, biology weakens and redox chemistry begins to reshape the soil environment.

But there is another form of imbalance that can emerge when chemistry is no longer moderated by living systems.

Sometimes reactions begin to move faster than biology can regulate them.

When this happens, soil chemistry can become reactive.

Moderated Chemistry vs Reactive Chemistry

In healthy soils, most chemical reactions occur within biological control.

Microbes regulate nutrient release.
Organic matter buffers sudden shifts.
Minerals remain part of slow biological cycles.

Chemistry still occurs—but it occurs at a pace that life can govern.

When biological balance weakens, some reactions can begin to accelerate.

Reactive compounds may form.
Electron transfers may occur rapidly.

The soil system begins to move from moderated chemistry toward reactive chemistry.

Reactive Oxygen...