26.6.1. Horton’s Equation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does 'f_0' represent in Horton’s Equation?

   Hint

   Consider what happens at the very start of an infiltration event.

2. 2.

   In what units is infiltration rate usually measured?

   Hint

   Think about rainfall measurement units.

3. 3.

   What does the term 'f(t)' represent in Horton’s Equation?

   • Initial infiltration rate
   • Infiltration rate at time t
   • Final infiltration rate

   Hint

   Think about the time relation in the equation.

4. 4.

   True or False: The final infiltration rate is usually higher than the initial infiltration rate.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens as soil gets saturated.

5. 5.

   If a soil’s initial infiltration rate is 60 mm/hr, final rate is 15 mm/hr, and the decay constant is 0.3, derive the rate of infiltration after 4 hours using Horton’s Equation.

   Hint

   Remember to calculate the exponential part accurately.

6. 6.

   Critically analyze how changing soil texture from sandy to clay might affect the parameters in Horton’s Equation. What implications would these changes have on water management?

   Hint

   Consider how soil composition affects permeability and absorption.