![]() This is the mechanism by which water reaches the subsoil and rooting zone of plants. Permeability is generally rated from very rapid to very slow ( Table 2.4). Permeability also varies with soil texture and structure. Organic matter, especially crop residue and decaying roots, promotes aggregation so that larger soil pores develop, allowing water to infiltrate more readily. Low infiltration rates lead to ponding on nearly level ground and runoff on sloping ground. Infiltration rates can be near zero for very clayey and compacted soils, or more than 10 inches per hour for sandy and well aggregated soils. It also serves as the storage compartment for water. Pore space in soil is the conduit that allows water to infiltrate and percolate. Movement of water into soil is called infiltration, and the downward movement of water within the soil is called percolation, permeability or hydraulic conductivity. ![]() Soil acts as a sponge to take up and retain water.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |