Behaviour of $NO_3-N$ in Soil and Groundwater Quality

토양(土壤)중 질산태질소(窒酸態窒素)의 행동(行動)과 지하수질(地下水質)

Nitrogen is an element required to meet optimal plant growth. However, when it was applied (as chemical fertilizer or animal waste) more than the demand of plant and managed it unreasonably can be accumulated in subsoil and leached from soil system. Nitrogen also can be act as an pollutant to soil and water through water contamination if its concentration exceed the critical level. The concentration and downward movement of nitrate in soil is influenced by cultural practices and soil properties. High level of nitrate nitrogen in drinking water is harzadrous for animal and human health, especially for infants and the restoration of the quality of groundwater is impossible by now. Therefore it is the only way to prevent from leaching of nitrate nitrogen to keep the quality of groundwater as vital water resource. The aims of the presentation of this review paper are to understand the relationship between agricultural practices and the concentration of nitrate nitrogen in groundwater and to suggest further informations for the rational management methods to reduce the leaching of nitrate nitrogen in soil.