Reconcile matched exchangeable-base, measured-CEC, and laboratory base-saturation records without inventing CEC from a fixed fraction.
A quick decision brief for this specific tool
Matched exchangeable Ca, Mg, K and Na records, measured CEC and laboratory-reported base saturation from the same sample/method basis
Entered base sum, calculated base saturation and signed difference from the laboratory record
Checks matched laboratory arithmetic; it never estimates CEC by assuming bases are a fixed fraction or labels base saturation 100% by default
Choose your path
Reconcile matched exchangeable-base, measured-CEC and laboratory base-saturation records without estimating CEC from a fixed base fraction.
Reproduce the laboratory percentage from matched bases and CEC.
Enter Ca, Mg, K, Na, measured CEC and reported base saturation from one sample/method.
Sees the signed difference without a fabricated CEC or 100% default.
Keep extraction and CEC methods aligned.
Verify sample, units, pH and method basis before using the arithmetic.
Flags a record mismatch without changing the reported method.
Avoid treating base saturation or ratios as a fertilizer prescription.
Use the laboratory interpretation and qualified nutrient plan separately.
Does not apply nutrients or lime from this comparison alone.
Outputs and checklists are planning aids. Review the linked current authorities and the records, terms, instructions, and requirements that apply to your exact situation before a consequential decision.
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Use calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and measured CEC from the same sample and compatible extraction/CEC method. The worksheet does not infer CEC from the base sum.
The four entered exchangeable bases are summed in cmolc/kg. Calculated base saturation is that matched sum divided by the entered measured CEC, multiplied by 100.
Calculated minus laboratory-reported base saturation gives a signed difference. Method, pH, carbonates, gypsum, soluble salts, and reporting conventions remain essential context.
Updated: August 2026
Reproduce one reported base-saturation percentage from its matched exchangeable bases and measured CEC.
Catch samples, units, or extraction and CEC methods that were combined on incompatible bases.
Preserve the arithmetic while sending fertility, nutrient, and amendment interpretation back to the laboratory or qualified adviser.
CEC must be a measured, method-identified laboratory record; dividing a base sum by 0.7 or another universal fraction fabricates a result.
Calculate from matched records and follow the laboratory method rules; special soils and reporting conventions require explicit treatment, not a default.
This worksheet reconciles matched exchangeable-base and measured-CEC records with a laboratory base-saturation result. It removes the former fixed-fraction CEC estimate and keeps fertility advice outside the arithmetic.
