Lecture 6: Soil and the Hydrologic Cycle

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the hydrologic cycle and soil properties based on the provided lecture notes.

Bulk Density

The mass of soil per unit volume, often expressed in grams per cubic centimeter.

Gravimetric Water Content (Θm)

The ratio of the mass of water to the mass of dry soil, expressed as a percentage.

Volumetric Water Content (Θv)

The volume of water in a given volume of soil, usually expressed as a fraction or percentage.

Hydrologic Cycle

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

Evaporation

The process of turning from liquid into vapor; a component of the hydrologic cycle.

Transpiration

The process by which moisture is carried through plants from roots to small openings on the underside of leaves, where it evaporates.

Infiltration

The process by which water enters and permeates the soil.

Percolation

The downward movement of water through soil and rock layers, which is crucial for groundwater replenishment.

Vadose Zone

The area of soil above the water table where soil pores are not completely filled with water.

Water Balance Equation

An equation that represents the balance between precipitation, evaporation, transpiration, and water storage.

Potential Evapotranspiration

The amount of evapotranspiration that would occur if there was sufficient water available.

Actual Evapotranspiration

The actual amount of water that is evaporated and transpired by plants under current conditions.