26.2.1. Typical Infiltration Curve

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the infiltration rate refer to?

   Hint

   It is often measured in mm/hr or cm/hr.

2. 2.

   What happens to the infiltration rate over time?

   Hint

   Think about soil saturation.

3. 3.

   What typically happens to the infiltration rate after water is applied to soil?

   • It remains constant
   • It initially increases
   • It decreases and then levels off

   Hint

   Think about how a sponge absorbs water.

4. 4.

   True or False: The steady-state infiltration means that water continues to infiltrate indefinitely at the same rate.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on the limitations of soil moisture.

5. 5.

   Design an irrigation system for a small farm using infiltration curves. What factors will you consider?

   Hint

   Think about how different soils behave with water.

6. 6.

   How would excessive rainfall affect the infiltration curve in an urbanized area with many impervious surfaces?

   Hint

   Consider how urban environments differ from rural in handling rainwater.