What defines the saturated zone in the soil?

The saturated zone in the soil is defined as the layer where all available spaces, or pores, are filled with water. This zone is critical in understanding groundwater and its movement, as it indicates that the soil or rock is fully saturated, meaning there is no air present in the spaces between the soil particles. This condition is significant for various environmental processes, including the transportation of nutrients and the behavior of contaminants.

The concept of the saturated zone is essential in hydrology and soil science, as it influences the availability of water to plants and the movement of groundwater. It is contrasted with the unsaturated zone, where pore spaces contain both air and water. The distinction between these zones is vital for managing water resources, agricultural practices, and understanding ecological systems.