Which method is used to measure soil moisture?

• A. Visual estimation
• B. Gravimetric method
• C. Soil pH testing
• D. Plant health assessment

Answer: (B)

The gravimetric method is widely recognized as a reliable technique for measuring soil moisture content. This method involves taking a soil sample, weighing it, then drying it in an oven at a specific temperature until all water has evaporated. After drying, the sample is weighed again. The difference in weight, when compared with the original weight, allows for the calculation of the moisture content as a percentage of the total weight.

This technique provides accurate and quantifiable data about the moisture present in the soil, making it essential for various applications in agriculture and environmental science. It is particularly useful because it directly measures the water content of the soil rather than estimating based on visual or indirect indicators, which can vary in precision and reliability.

Other methods listed, such as visual estimation, soil pH testing, and plant health assessment, do not provide a direct measurement of soil moisture. They may support understanding soil conditions but lack the specificity and accuracy offered by the gravimetric method.