This question was fairly attempted by the candidates. In questions 1(a), (c) and (d), most of the candidates could state the aim of the experiment, list apparatus used in the experiment and describe the procedure used in setting up the experiment.
However, in question 1(b), many candidates were unable to list the sequence of water rise in the soil from highest to the lowest. Also, in question 1(e), most candidates could not state the reasons why there is a difference in the water levels in soil samples B and C.
The expected answers include:
The rise in water is in the following order:
Specimen C - highest - sand;
Specimen A - higher - loam;
Specimen B - lowest - clay.
Note: These levels are what may be observed within the time limit given for the
experiment. If longer, the levels would change.
Why there is a difference in the water levels in soil samples B and C?
- In sample C, sand, the larger particles and pore spaces allow water to rise much faster than in clay (sample B) but stop soon because of low capillary attraction
In sample B, clay, the very fine particles and pore spaces do not allow water to penetrate and rise fast, but as the clay particles absorb water and swell, there is greater capillarity attraction which enables the level to rise up more than sand later. 
