Based on the graphs in Fig. 22, match graphs X, Y, and Z to sand, loam, and clay soils, explaining the capillary action involved.

Capillary action is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces against the force of gravity. In soils, this refers to how water rises through the pore spaces.

• Sand soil has large particles and large pore spaces. Water rises quickly initially due to less resistance, but the capillary force is weak, so it doesn't rise very high.
• Clay soil has very small particles and very small pore spaces. Water rises slowly due to high resistance, but the strong capillary forces allow it to rise to a greater height.
• Loam soil has a mixture of particle sizes, resulting in moderate pore spaces. It exhibits intermediate capillary action, with a moderate rate of rise and a moderate final height.

• Graph Y shows the fastest initial rise in water height but reaches the lowest maximum height. This indicates sand soil.
• Graph X shows an intermediate rate of rise and reaches an intermediate maximum height. This indicates loam soil.
• Graph Z shows the slowest initial rise in water height but continues to rise to the highest maximum height over time. This indicates clay soil.

• X = Loam soil
• Y = Sand soil
• Z = Clay soil