ABSTRACT
The series of fractal dimensions observed thus far for humic acids suggests that there are limits to the extent that observed aggregation patterns can be neatly organized into previously specified categories which have been largely developed from computer simulations. Several approaches have been developed to describe the configuration of humic materials. When the shape of aggregate geometry is modified, the previous fractal scattering curve will be replaced by a new spectral curve that reflects the changes in cluster morphology. One plausible scenario would be for fractal clusters to collapse under increased aggregation, but it would be no less conceivable for lightly bound subparticles to collect loosely on previously formed clusters, especially if the mechanism of aggregation for these subparticles involves weaker bonding energies. Comparisons of absolute intensities in such cases will only be meaningful when the scattering curves can be described in terms of parameters reflecting aggregate morphology.
