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Agronomy QUESTION #2072
Question 1
Soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) — also called soil moisture retention curve — describes the relationship between:
  • Soil bulk density and hydraulic conductivity
  • Soil water content (\(\theta\)) and soil matric potential (\(\psi_m\)), showing how tightly water is held at different moisture levels — the curve shape is determined by soil texture and structure✔️
  • Soil organic matter content and cation exchange capacity
  • Rainfall intensity and surface runoff generation
Correct Answer Explanation
The SWCC plots volumetric water content (x-axis) against matric potential (y-axis, negative values). Sandy soils show rapid drainage with little water held at low potentials; clay soils retain more water at all potentials. Key points on the curve define field capacity (−33 kPa) and PWP (−1500 kPa). Hysteresis means the wetting and drying curves differ.