Water flow patterns in soil could revolutionize irrigation practices worldwide.
The study used Tensiometers to examine how water moves through soil in the shallow vadose zone. The researchers found that water generally flows from wetter areas to drier areas, with a vertical movement but also some lateral flow. They calculated the infiltration rate and hydraulic conductivity of the soil, showing that water moves faster at the beginning of infiltration and slows down over time. The pressure head gradient plays a significant role in water movement, with gravity affecting preferential flow patterns. Additionally, even small changes in soil-water pressure due to slope can alter the direction and amount of water flow.