In terms of thermal conductivity between dry soil and wet soil, which one is better? Why?

Answer 1

Wet soil conducts heat much better than dry soil.

Dry soil will have tiny voids in between the particles of earth (dirt, sand, etc.) This acts as insulation to prevent heat transfer. Moisture causes the soil to swell and even fills the remaining voids. The result is better thermal conductivity.

This is actual an issue when electric cables are buried directly in the soil. You are counting on a certain amount of moisture so the earth can act as a heat sink to dissipate the heat generated by the losses in the cable. If the soil is very dry, it begins to act like a blanket around the cable, trapping in the heat. If the cable runs too hot, it begins damaging the insulation and accelerates the aging of the cable.

Answer 2

I would expect the hydrated soil to transfer more heat since liquids transfer heat much better then solids.

Answer 3

definite, it is going to, you are able to try including sand to it, and also mulching the proper which may enable the water trickle down. you are able to't placed down heavy mulch till the vegetation are at a particular height because the seedlings would not take care of to get by it. you should also make investments in some respectable proper soil, as antagonistic to purely favourite airborne dirt and mud, because it has blend of sand and soil in it, which prevents dirt.