The infiltration process is one of the key elements in the hydrological cycle because it allows water to enter the soil, which is in turn used by plants, recharging groundwater and contributing flow to surface water bodies. The objective of this article is to describe the infiltration process in hydrology and its importance in water management.
Infiltration is the process by which rainwater or any other source of water enters the soil. Infiltration is influenced by various factors, such as soil type, existing vegetation, topography, and weather conditions.
The infiltration process begins with precipitation on the soil surface and its passage through the alteration and vegetation layers until it reaches the soil itself. At this point, there is a back-and-forth oscillation between water accumulation on the soil surface and infiltration into the soil. Field Capacity is the percentage of soil moisture that remains after a period of rainfall, and the infiltration rate reveals the speed at which water will enter the soil.
It is important to note that the infiltration rate varies significantly depending on the soil type. Sandy soil will have greater infiltration capacity than clay soil, as the former has more air spaces and drainage.
In addition, vegetation significantly influences the infiltration process, as plant roots help water penetrate the soil surface and are important agents in preventing erosion. Thus, wooded areas not only have greater infiltration capacities, but also protect soil from excessive erosion.
It is also important to note that topography influences the infiltration rate, as a notable slope can reduce the time of contact between water and soil. However, this characteristic can be used to reduce future flooding and erosion.
Infiltration capacity
Infiltration capacity is the maximum amount of water that a soil can absorb under certain conditions, and it varies over time depending on soil moisture, soil material, and the degree of soil compaction. This capacity decreases until it reaches an almost constant value as precipitation continues, and it is only then that runoff begins.
In the following Twitter thread, you will find a brief description of the main methods used to estimate the infiltration capacity of soils.
Below I share a video with which you will learn to estimate the infiltration capacity with the Kostiakov and Horton method, using Excel.
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