Sorptivity Given Infiltration Capacity Calculator

Sorptivity Formula:

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

Sorptivity (s):

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1. What is Sorptivity?

Sorptivity is a function of soil suction potential and measures the capacity of the medium to absorb or desorb liquid by capillarity. It's a key parameter in soil physics and hydrology that describes the ability of soil to draw in water through capillary action.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Sorptivity formula:

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

Where:

\( s \) — Sorptivity (cm/h¹ᐟ²)
\( f_p \) — Infiltration Capacity at Any Time t (cm/h)
\( k \) — Hydraulic Conductivity (cm/h)
\( t \) — Time (h)

Explanation: The formula calculates sorptivity based on the difference between infiltration capacity and hydraulic conductivity, adjusted for time.

3. Importance of Sorptivity Calculation

Details: Sorptivity is crucial for understanding water movement in unsaturated soils, predicting infiltration rates, and designing irrigation and drainage systems. It helps in assessing how quickly water will be absorbed by different soil types.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units are used for sorptivity?
A: Sorptivity is typically measured in cm/h¹ᐟ² (centimeters per square root of hour).

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 without relying on capillary action.

Q3: What is the typical range of sorptivity values?
A: Sorptivity values vary widely depending on soil type, ranging from 0.1-0.5 cm/h¹ᐟ² for clay soils to 2-5 cm/h¹ᐟ² for sandy soils.

Q4: How does time affect sorptivity calculations?
A: Sorptivity decreases with time as the soil becomes more saturated and capillary forces diminish.

Q5: Can this formula be used for all soil types?
A: While the formula provides a general calculation, specific soil properties and conditions may require more complex models for accurate sorptivity determination.