Which term describes the loss of nutrients that can occur from rain or irrigation?

The term that describes the loss of nutrients due to rain or irrigation is leaching. Leaching refers to the process by which water-soluble substances, including nutrients, are washed out from the soil and into lower soil layers or beyond the root zone. This typically occurs when excess water moves through the soil profile, potentially leading to nutrient depletion in the upper layers where plants can access them.

Runoff, although related, specifically refers to water that flows over the surface of the land and can carry away topsoil and nutrients. Erosion pertains more to the physical detachment and removal of soil and sediment, while salinization involves the accumulation of salts in the soil, usually due to poor water management or excessive evaporation. Understanding leaching is crucial for effective nutrient management in agriculture and gardening, as it highlights the importance of water management practices to minimize nutrient loss.