42. Root Zone Soil Water

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are the three types of soil water?

   Hint

   Think about how water is held in soil.

2. 2.

   What does Field Capacity represent?

   Hint

   Consider the timing after rainfall or irrigation.

3. 3.

   Which type of soil water is primarily available for plants?

   • Gravitational Water
   • Capillary Water
   • Hygroscopic Water

   Hint

   Think about which type water plants can actually use.

4. 4.

   True or False: Hygroscopic water is freely available to plants.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how tightly it's held.

5. 5.

   A researcher finds that the root zone has a Field Capacity of 35% and a Permanent Wilting Point of 20%. Calculate the Available Water and discuss its significance for a crop with a rooting depth of 0.8m.

   Hint

   Make sure to use the formula for AW and consider rooting depth.

6. 6.

   If you increase soil compaction, how would that affect the infiltration rate and subsequently the root zone water availability? Provide a detailed explanation.

   Hint

   Connect the concepts of soil texture, infiltration, and root activity.