Splitting

After drying and sieving, the soil sample must be reduced again to ensure the final subsample remains representative of the entire field. 

This is done using a riffler, which divides the sample into two equal parts. This process is called splitting.

One subsample will be kept in a vial and used for the soil analysis. The remainder can be stored in a pot as a spare sample. 

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Prepare the Sample

• Ensure the sample is fully dried and properly sieved.

2. Place the Sample in the Riffler

• Pour the soil evenly into the riffler

3. Split the Sample

• Allow the soil to pass through the riffler
• The sample will be divided into two equal subsamples

4. Collect the Subsamples & Assign the Samples

• Collect both portions separately
• One subsample → place in a vial for analysis
• Second subsample → store in a container as a backup sample

Note: Uneven splitting can lead to non-representative analysis outcomes!