Biology A-Level
leaching
What leaching means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of leaching
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain leaching in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The washing of soluble ions down through the soil by rain or irrigation water, mattering most for nitrate because every nitrate salt is soluble and nothing in the soil binds it.
Topics that use leaching
- Nutrient cycles (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- algal bloom
- ammonification
- artificial fertilisers
- decomposers
- denitrification
- eutrophication
- extracellular digestion
- ion availability
Using leaching in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Biology A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge