19.6.4. Bowen Ratio Energy Balance Method

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the Bowen Ratio?

   Hint

   Think about the heat exchanged during evaporation.

2. 2.

   Name one component of the energy balance equation.

   Hint

   Consider the energy inputs and outputs.

3. 3.

   What does the Bowen Ratio represent?

   • Soil moisture content
   • Sensible heat flux to latent heat flux
   • Temperature variations

   Hint

   Think of its definition related to heat and moisture.

4. 4.

   The equation R_n - G - H = λE is used in which method?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the components constituting the energy equation.

5. 5.

   An area has a net radiation of 800 W/m², a sensible heat flux of 300 W/m², and a soil heat flux of 50 W/m². Calculate the latent heat flux and the Bowen Ratio.

   Hint

   Follow the order of operations in calculating the energy balance.

6. 6.

   Discuss how an increase in soil heat flux might influence the Bowen Ratio and subsequent ET estimates in a dry climate.

   Hint

   Consider how each flux is interdependent in a dry setting.