Nutrient Distribution Characteristics of Natural Soils Surrounding Typical Mining Areas in Xinjiang and Their Topography-Parent Material Controls

Natural soils surrounding mining areas are an important component of regional ecosystems, and their nutrient characteristics are jointly influenced by natural geologic settings and mining activities. To clarify the background characteristics and controlling factors of soil nutrients around mining areas, this study investigated natural soils surrounding typical mining areas in Xinjiang. The spatial distribution of soil nutrients across different regions and mineral types was systematically analyzed, and the controlling effects of topographic factors and parent material properties were examined. The results indicate significant differences in soil nutrient contents among regions, with regional-scale natural geographic conditions exerting clear constraints on nutrient background levels. Nutrient distribution ranges among different mineral types show considerable overlap, accompanied by substantial internal variability within each mineral type. Correlation analysis reveals that elevation is the primary topographic factor influencing multiple nutrient indicators, slope plays a secondary regulatory role, and the overall effect of aspect is relatively limited. The mean nutrient combinations under different parent materials remain relatively stable. Overall, the distribution of soil nutrients around mining areas is the result of the long-term combined effects of topographic conditions and parent material properties.