
Soil water retention curve
The soil water retention curve illustrates how much water soil can hold at different moisture levels. It shows the relationship between soil water content and the tension (or suction) required to extract that water. Essentially, when soil is saturated, it holds the most water. As it dries, the water is held more tightly and becomes harder to extract. This curve is important for understanding how plants access water, predicting irrigation needs, and managing water resources in agriculture and environmental science. It reflects the soil's ability to retain and supply water to plants effectively.
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The Soil Water Retention Curve is a graph that shows how much water soil can hold at different moisture levels. It illustrates the relationship between the water content in the soil and the pressure required to extract that water. Initially, soil retains water easily, but as it dries, less water is available and more effort is needed to get it out. This curve is essential for understanding irrigation, drainage, and plant health, helping farmers and scientists manage water resources effectively in agriculture and environmental conservation.