“Soil Physics” represents a focused scientific discipline that systematically explores the intricate physical properties and inherent processes found within soils. This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the field, emphasizing crucial factors, such as soil structure, texture, and the dynamic interplay of water movement and heat transfer within the soil matrix. It meticulously examines fundamental concepts including soil porosity, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, and the intricate dynamics of soil-water retention. By providing an in-depth analysis of these essential elements, the book aims to enhance the reader’s understanding of the physical characteristics of soil and their profound implications across diverse domains, including agriculture, environmental science, and soil management. The text systematically covers the governing principles that dictate soil behaviour under varied environmental conditions. Additionally, it may delve into the intricate relationships between soil and plants, shedding light on how soil physics influences agricultural practices, land management, and environmental conservation. In summary, a book on soil physics serves as a comprehensive resource for students, researchers, and professionals in the field of agriculture and soil science, offering a profound understanding of the physical aspects of soil and their implications for various applications.
Dr. Peeyush Sharma received Ph.D. degree in Soil Science from illustrious G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, Uttaranchal and joined SKUAST-Jammu in 2004. She is involved in teaching UG and PG courses in division of Soil Science, SKUAST-J and was awarded PDF in NATP project, GBPUA &T, Pantnagar and in prestigious Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, ARO, Volcani Centre, Israel. Her research accomplishments stand published in reputed international journals like Geoderma, European Journal of Agronomy, European Journal of Soil Science, Soil and Tillage Research besides otherreputed journals and edited three international books.
Dr. Vikas Abrol, a Soil Scientist received Ph.D. degree from SKUASTJammu and was awarded Post-doctoral research fellowship for one year by Ministry of Agriculture, in Volcani Centre, Agricultural Research Organization, Israel and a research fellowship for one academic year in Volcani Centre, ARO, Israel. He joined SKUAST–Jammu in the year 2004 as a Soil Scientist and published research accomplishments in the journals of international repute like Land Degradation and Development; Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science; Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, European Journal of Agronomy; European Journal of Soil Science, Journal of Soil and Sediments, Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, etc. with high impact factor and edited international books “Biochar: An Imperative Soil Amendment”, “Crop Production Technologies” and “Resource Management for Sustainable Agriculture”. His research interests entail using biochar, nanobiochar and synthetic polymers (PAM) for erosion control, infiltration improvement and soil structural stabilization.
Er N. K. Gupta, received M.Tech. from IIT, Roorkee and worked as Associate Professor in SKUAST-Jammu. He has 35 years teaching experience, of UG and PG courses in the field of soil-water conservation, watershed management and holds specialization in water management. He remained involved in research projects sponsored by DST and Ministry of Agriculture, GOI projects.
1. An Introduction to Soil..................................................................... 1
2. Soil Sampling, Processing and Storage........................................ 13
3. Soil Water Content .......................................................................... 17
4. Soil Water Holding Capacity ........................................................ 31
5. Soil Water Retention at Field Capacity and Wilting Point ...... 35
6. Soil Water Potential ........................................................................ 41
7. Soil Air............................................................................................... 47
8. Soil Texture ....................................................................................... 55
9. Soil Consistency ............................................................................... 67
10. Soil Colour ........................................................................................ 73
11. Soil Bulk Density and Porosity ...................................................... 79
12. Soil Particle Density ........................................................................ 87
13. Soil Structure .................................................................................... 91
14. Soil Aggregate Stability .................................................................. 95
15. Soil Infiltration Rate ......................................................................105
16. Soil Hydraulic Conductivity ........................................................113
17. Soil Tensiometer.............................................................................119
18. Capillary Rise of Water in Soil ...................................................125
19. Soil Weight Volume Relationship ...............................................129
20. Soil Temperature ...........................................................................135
21. Soil Forming Minerals and Their Identification.......................139
22. Soil Forming Rocks ........................................................................145
23. Study of a Soil Profile ...................................................................149
24. Crop Water Requirement.............................................................153
25. Measurement of Consumptive Use of Water ...........................163
26. Soil Erodibility ................................................................................175
Glossary ...........................................................................................181
