Geophysical Analysis of Soil Properties and Their Effect on Intensive Maize Farming in Jalingo, Taraba State
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1017-6041Keywords:
Thermal conductivity, Soil properties, Geophysical analysis, Maize farming, Jalingo, Taraba State, Clay soil, Sandy soil, Loamy soilAbstract
This study investigated the geophysical properties of selected soil samples and their effects on intensive maize farming in Jalingo, Taraba State. Loamy, sandy and clay soils were analyzed in the laboratory to determine their physical and thermal characteristics, including mass, density, emissivity, thermal conductivity and thermal resistivity. The study applied the steady-state and cooling-curve methods to evaluate heat transfer through the soil samples. Results showed that clay soil had the highest thermal conductivity (1.0675 × 10−3 W/mK) and the lowest thermal resistivity (936.77 mK/W), indicating faster heat transfer. Sandy soil recorded moderate conductivity (8.0985 × 10−4 W/mK) and resistivity (1234.79 mK/W), while loamy soil had the lowest conductivity (2.45 × 10−4 W/mK) and highest resistivity (4000.00 mK/W). The findings indicate that loamy soil provides the most favorable thermal condition for maize cultivation because it supports stable root-zone temperature, better moisture retention and improved root development. Sandy and clay soils can also support maize production, but they require improved management practices such as mulching, organic matter addition, drainage control and proper irrigation. The study concludes that soil thermal behavior is an important factor in intensive maize farming and should be considered when selecting and managing farmland in Jalingo.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kussiy J. Jonathan, Johnson Akwoga, Patrick K. Kefas, Yabwa Dlama
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