THE IMPACT OF HUMIC ACID ON LIFE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

THE IMPACT OF HUMIC ACID ON LIFE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

*Ni Nyoman Rupiasih, Dept. of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Udayana University

*rupiasih@unud.ac.id

Humic substances or better known as hummus, are natural products, which are a source of organic carbon which is very important in the geosphere. Humic substances can be found everywhere, in soil, sediments, and aquatic environments. In nature, humic substances are formed through a process of humification, which is the process of degradation of dead tissue of animals and plants naturally. Based on its solubility in strong acids and bases, humic substances are classified into humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. Humic acid only dissolves in strong bases, fulvic acid can dissolve in strong bases or strong acids, while humin is insoluble in both types of solutions. Based on the color of the solution, fulvic acid is a bright yellow to yellowish-brown, humic acid is dark brown to black-gray, and humin is pitch black.

Humic acid has a complex molecular structure with a high molecular weight so it is often called macromolecules or organic polymers that contain active groups. The macromolecular structure is a mixture of aromatic and aliphatic organic compounds. The properties of humic acid include polydisperse (having different composition and molecular weight), polyelectrolyte, paramagnetic, and unique physiochemistry. Humic acid contains chromophore, which is a pigment that is very sensitive to light, functions as an antenna, an electromagnetic (EM) wave absorber at certain wavelengths. The chromophore can absorb electromagnetic radiation broadly including X-rays, ultraviolet (UV), visible light, and infrared (IR). These properties allow humic acid to re-emit EM radiation which is absorbed in the form of heat radiation into the environment and can also act as a photoactive agent.

Humic acid has contributed greatly to 'fertility and soil survival'. It is also a food source for plants and improves soil structure. So many positive aspects of humic acid, the question arises ‘what are the negative aspects of humic acid on our lives and the environment?’ The following outlines the positive and negative aspects of humic acid on life and the environment. ......

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