"Humic substances are highly abundant organic compounds formed in soils and sediments by the decay of dead plants, microbes and animals. This book focuses on the important binding properties of these compounds that regulate the chemical reactivity and bioavailability of hydrogen and metal ions in the natural environment.". "This comprehensive account of cation binding by humic matter is a valuable resource for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, environmental scientists, ecologists and geochemists."--BOOK JACKET.