Soil thermal properties

Soil thermal properties describe how soil heats and cools. Key factors include thermal conductivity (how well soil transfers heat), specific heat capacity (how much heat soil can store), and thermal diffusivity (the speed at which temperature changes move through it). These properties influence temperature fluctuations, plant growth, and soil processes. For example, moist, compact soil conducts heat well and heats up or cools down more slowly, while dry, loose soil warms and cools faster. Understanding these helps manage agriculture, climate studies, and construction effectively.