Equation For Infiltration Capacity Calculator

Equation For Infiltration Capacity:

\[ f_p = \frac{1}{2} \cdot s \cdot t^{-1/2} + k \]

Infiltration Capacity at Any Time t:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Equation For Infiltration Capacity?

The Equation For Infiltration Capacity estimates the rate at which water percolates into the soil at any given time from the start of rainfall. It combines sorptivity, time, and hydraulic conductivity to model the infiltration process.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the infiltration capacity equation:

\[ f_p = \frac{1}{2} \cdot s \cdot t^{-1/2} + k \]

Where:

\( f_p \) — Infiltration Capacity at Any Time t (Centimeter per Hour)
\( s \) — Sorptivity (-)
\( t \) — Time (Hour)
\( k \) — Hydraulic Conductivity (Centimeter per Hour)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the initial rapid infiltration rate that decreases over time, approaching the hydraulic conductivity of the soil.

3. Importance of Infiltration Capacity Calculation

Details: Accurate infiltration capacity estimation is crucial for hydrological modeling, irrigation planning, flood prediction, and understanding soil-water relationships in agricultural and environmental applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter sorptivity value, time in hours, and hydraulic conductivity in centimeter per hour. All values must be valid (time > 0, sorptivity and hydraulic conductivity ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is sorptivity in this context?
A: Sorptivity is a measure of the soil's capacity to absorb or desorb liquid by capillarity, representing the initial infiltration rate when time approaches zero.

Q2: How does time affect infiltration capacity?
A: Infiltration capacity decreases with time, initially rapidly and then more gradually, eventually approaching the hydraulic conductivity value.

Q3: What factors influence hydraulic conductivity?
A: Hydraulic conductivity depends on soil texture, structure, porosity, and the properties of the infiltrating fluid.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This equation provides a simplified model and may not accurately represent complex soil conditions, layered soils, or situations with surface sealing.

Q5: What are typical values for infiltration capacity?
A: Values vary widely by soil type, ranging from 0.25-2.5 cm/hr for clay soils to 2.5-25 cm/hr for sandy soils, decreasing over time.