and differing Pa at ends of the capillary)--and the chemical composition of the solid matrix (meniscus, macroscopic motion due to ionic attraction).

In many cases, the absolute value of matrix potential can be relatively large in comparison to the other components of water potential discussed above. Matrix potential markedly reduces the energy state of water near particle surfaces. Although water movement due to matrix potential may be slow, it is still extremely important in supplying water to plant roots and in engineering applications.