What is the Difference Between Infiltration and Percolation?

Infiltration and percolation are two related but different processes that describe the movement of water through soil. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Definition: Infiltration is the downward entry of water into the soil or rock surface, while percolation is the flow of water through soil and porous or fractured rock.
2. Location: Infiltration takes place in the root zone and soil surface, while percolation occurs in between the transition zone and saturated zone.
3. Speed: Infiltration is a faster movement of water through the soil and occurs at the surface of the soil, replenishing the water deficiency of the top layers of the soil. Percolation, on the other hand, is the slow movement of water through underground layers of soil, replenishing underground aquifers.
4. Measurement: Infiltration can be measured using an infiltrometer, while percolation can be measured using a lysimeter.

In summary, both infiltration and percolation involve the movement of water through soil, but they differ in their definition, location, speed, and measurement methods.

Comparative Table: Infiltration vs Percolation

Infiltration and percolation are two different processes related to the movement of water in soil. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

In summary, infiltration is the faster movement of water through the soil surface, while percolation is the slower movement of water through underground layers of soil.