Water retention curve
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The water retention curve (WRC) is a fundamental concept in soil physics and hydrology that describes the relationship between the water content of a soil and the soil water potential. This curve is crucial for understanding the water-holding capacity of soils, which has significant implications for agriculture, irrigation, and environmental science.
Description[edit | edit source]
The water retention curve is typically plotted with the soil water potential (often expressed as matric potential) on the x-axis and the volumetric water content on the y-axis. The shape of the curve provides insights into the soil's ability to retain water at various tensions.
Key Parameters[edit | edit source]
Several key parameters are derived from the water retention curve:
- Field capacity - The amount of soil moisture or water content held in the soil after excess water has drained away and the rate of downward movement has decreased.
- Permanent wilting point - The minimal point of soil moisture the plant requires not to wilt.
- Available water capacity - The range of available water that can be stored in soil and be available for growing crops.
Measurement[edit | edit source]
The water retention curve can be determined using various laboratory and field methods. Common techniques include:
Applications[edit | edit source]
Understanding the water retention curve is essential for:
- Designing efficient irrigation systems
- Predicting soil erosion
- Managing soil salinity
- Enhancing crop yield
Factors Affecting the Water Retention Curve[edit | edit source]
Several factors influence the shape and position of the water retention curve, including:
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Soil physics
- Soil water potential
- Matric potential
- Field capacity
- Permanent wilting point
- Available water capacity
- Pressure plate apparatus
- Tensiometer
- Time domain reflectometry
- Soil texture
- Soil structure
- Organic matter
- Bulk density
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
