Jurnal Fisika
Vol. 16 No. 2 (2026): Jurnal Fisika 16 (2) 2026

Characterization of Soil Physical Properties in Rice Fields Affected by Seawater Intrusion in Pemalang Regency

Ismi Izzatun Naeli (Master of Physics Education Study Program, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia)
Indriyana Atmaja (Master of Physics Education Study Program, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia)
Roudhotul Muna Zen (Master of Physics Education Study Program, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Oct 2026

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the physical properties of rice field soil affected by seawater intrusion in Ulujami Subdistrict, Pemalang Regency. Soil samples were collected from Limbangan Village and analyzed in the laboratory in November 2024, focusing on electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, and soil pH. The EC values obtained were 7.8 mmhos/cm at the center, 7.4 mmhos/cm on the right, and 7.1 mmhos/cm on the left, exceeding the plant tolerance threshold of 4 mmhos/cm. These results indicate high dissolved salt content, classifying the area as saline soil with salinity class 2, where only salt-tolerant plants can grow and productivity may decline. The soil also showed alkaline characteristics, with pH values of 8.7 (center), 8.5 (right), and 8.2 (left). The elevated pH is associated with sodium chloride ions displacing essential soil cations such as calcium and magnesium, thereby reducing microbial water absorption and potentially disrupting nutrient balance. Overall, the EC, salinity, and pH measurements indicate that the soil fertility in this area is low, making the land less suitable for optimal rice cultivation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jf

Publisher

Subject

Physics

Description

urnal Fisika coverage extends across the whole of physics, encompassing pure, applied, theoretical and experimental research, as well as interdisciplinary topics. Research areas covered by the journal ...