An area of soil thoroughly wetted and allowed to drain till percolation stops will have a water content called

Options

A. Capillary water
B. Strong water
C. Field capacity
D. Gravitational water

Answer

To answer the question, "An area of soil thoroughly wetted and allowed to drain till percolation stops will have a water content called," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Concept of Percolation**:
- Percolation refers to the process by which water moves through soil layers. It occurs when water drains through the soil until it reaches a point where no more water can pass through.

2. **Identify the Water Content After Percolation Stops**:
- When soil is thoroughly wetted and allowed to drain, it will eventually reach a point where percolation stops. At this point, the soil retains a certain amount of water.

3. **Define Field Capacity**:
- Field capacity is the term used to describe the amount of soil moisture remaining in the soil after excess water has drained away and the rate of downward movement has decreased. This is the water content that the soil can hold against the force of gravity.

4. **Evaluate the Options**:
- The options given include capillary water, strong water, field water, and gravitational water.
- Capillary water is held in small pores and is available for plant roots, but it does not describe the state after percolation stops.
- Strong water (distilled water) is not relevant in this context.
- Gravitational water refers to water that moves downward due to gravity and is not retained in the soil.
- Field capacity is the correct term that describes the water content after percolation has stopped.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is "field capacity."

### Final Answer:
The water content called when an area of soil is thoroughly wetted and allowed to drain until percolation stops is **field capacity**.

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