Concept of Soil Water Movement in Relation to Variable Water Potential

摘要

Soil water potential is the main driving force which causes the soil water to move from one point to other point in the soil depending upon it’s energy state. The total energy state of soil water is defined by its equivalent potential energy, as determined by the various forces acting on the water per unit quantity. In general, flow rates of water in soils is too small to consider kinetic energy. Therefore, the energy state of soil water is defined by its equivalent potential energy, that is by virtue of its position in a force field and which further has a scope to manage irrigation. Usually, farmers mostly apply flood irrigation but after properly monitoring soil water potential with the help of tensiometer helps us to save a significant amount of water. Thus, a proper understanding of soil water potential, it’s components and their relation with the soil water movement is a must for every soil scientist, agronomist and hydrologist for implementing effective plans towards the judicious use of water.