Formation and evolution of soil salinization based on multivariate statistical methods in Ningxia Plain, China

The Ningxia Plain, situated in the arid zone of northwest China, is a typical dryland plain that faces significant challenges to sustainable agricultural development due soil salinization. In this study, we employed multivariate analysis and geostatistical methods investigate degree distribution types salinization hydrochemical characteristics shallow groundwater. We also examined relationship between hydrogeochemical by analyzing sources groundwater ions. This study developed model describe process Plain. results indicate majority surface soils are alkaline type soils, followed chloride-sulfate soils. mainly fresh water brackish water, with SO 4 ·HCO 3 –Ca·Mg or ·Cl–Ca·Mg. Saline salt represented Cl–Na·Mg Cl·SO –Na·Mg. observed spatial trends depth total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations were opposite salinity, which suggests certain second-order trend effect. Furthermore, increased then decreased from pre-mountain alluvial Yellow River plain, while chemistry ranged simple complex. most severe area was found be concentrated Hongguang Yaofu, where salinity accumulation influenced continental summary, provides valuable insights into can inform strategies for mitigating promoting agriculture regions.