Question

The potential develop from gravitational, absorptive and capillary forces of soil matrix to soil water is known as:
A. Overburden potential
B. Gravitational potential
C. Osmotic potential
D. Matric potential
E. Submergence potential
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A and D only
• B. B and E only
• C. A and C only
• D. B and D only

Hint:

Soil water potential components:
- Matric potential: Capillary and adsorptive forces.
- Osmotic potential: Solute effects.
- Gravitational potential: Elevation.
- Pressure potential: Positive pressure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil water potential is the sum of various component potentials.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The potential developed from gravitational, absorptive, and capillary forces is the matric potential.
- Gravitational potential (B): Due to elevation/position.
- Matric potential (D): Due to capillary and adsorptive forces.
Other potentials:
- Osmotic potential (C): Due to dissolved salts (not included here).
- Overburden potential (A): Due to pressure from overlying material.
- Submergence potential (E): Not a standard term.
The question asks for "gravitational, absorptive and capillary forces" which together form the matric potential.
Thus, the answer includes B (gravitational) and D (matric).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the correct answer is B and D only.
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