What is the term for the downward movement of a substance in solution through soil?

Study for the Washington Turf and Ornamental Weed Management Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Leaching is the term used to describe the process of downward movement of a substance, often nutrients or contaminants, in solution through soil. This phenomenon occurs when water, typically through rainfall or irrigation, moves through the soil profile, carrying with it dissolved substances. Leaching is crucial in soil science as it can affect soil fertility and the quality of groundwater.

The effectiveness of leaching is influenced by several factors, including soil texture, structure, and the solubility of the substances involved. In agricultural contexts, understanding leaching can help in managing nutrient applications to minimize losses and protect water resources. The other terms, although related to water movement, refer to different processes; for example, infiltration pertains to how water enters the soil surface, while percolation describes the downward movement of water through saturated soil layers, and evaporation refers to the conversion of liquid water to vapor, which does not involve the movement of substances through soil.

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