Sorptivity For Cumulative Infiltration Capacity Is From Philip's Equation Calculator

Philip's Equation:

\[ s = \frac{F_p - k \times t}{t^{1/2}} \]

Sorptivity (s):

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1. What Is The Sorptivity For Cumulative Infiltration Capacity Is From Philip's Equation?

The Philip's equation calculates sorptivity, which measures the capacity of soil to absorb or desorb liquid by capillarity. It's derived from the relationship between cumulative infiltration capacity, hydraulic conductivity, and time.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Philip's equation:

\[ s = \frac{F_p - k \times t}{t^{1/2}} \]

Where:

\( s \) — Sorptivity (cm/hr¹ᐟ²)
\( F_p \) — Cumulative Infiltration Capacity (cm/hr)
\( k \) — Hydraulic Conductivity (cm/hr)
\( t \) — Time (hr)

Explanation: The equation calculates the soil's capillary absorption capacity by accounting for the relationship between infiltration capacity, hydraulic conductivity, and time duration.

3. Importance Of Sorptivity Calculation

Details: Sorptivity is crucial for understanding soil water movement, irrigation planning, drainage design, and predicting water infiltration rates in various soil types.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter cumulative infiltration capacity and hydraulic conductivity in cm/hr, time in hours. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is sorptivity in soil science?
A: Sorptivity is a measure of the soil's capacity to absorb water through capillary action, indicating how quickly water moves into dry soil.

Q2: How does hydraulic conductivity affect sorptivity?
A: Higher hydraulic conductivity generally results in lower sorptivity values as water moves more easily through the soil rather than being absorbed by capillary action.

Q3: What are typical sorptivity values for different soil types?
A: Sandy soils typically have lower sorptivity values (0.1-0.5 cm/hr¹ᐟ²), while clay soils have higher values (0.5-2.0 cm/hr¹ᐟ²).

Q4: When is Philip's equation most applicable?
A: Philip's equation is most accurate for early-time infiltration before gravity becomes the dominant force in water movement.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation assumes homogeneous soil properties and may be less accurate for long time periods or in soils with significant preferential flow paths.