2.1. Equilibrium and Mass Balance

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define unsaturated soil.

   Hint

   Think about what it means for soil to have spaces for both air and water.

2. 2.

   What are the three classifications of soil moisture?

   Hint

   Recall the terms we discussed earlier describing different water amounts.

3. 3.

   What is unsaturated soil?

   • Soil with only water
   • Soil with both air and water
   • Completely dry soil

   Hint

   Think about what 'unsaturated' implies.

4. 4.

   True or False: Damp soil has full monolayer coverage of water.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the definitions of the moisture classifications.

5. 5.

   Evaluate a scenario where a chemical is introduced into dry soil. Discuss the expected behavior of the chemical and its implications for environmental management.

   Hint

   Consider how moisture levels alter chemical interactions with soil.

6. 6.

   Propose methods for measuring partition constants in different moisture states. What factors would you need to consider?

   Hint

   Reflect on the practical aspects of measuring chemical concentrations.