28. Measurement of Infiltration

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is infiltration?

   Hint

   Think about where rainwater goes after it hits the ground.

2. 2.

   List one factor that affects soil infiltration.

   Hint

   Consider how different types of soil might absorb water.

3. 3.

   What does the infiltration capacity refer to?

   • The speed at which water enters the soil
   • The maximum rate of soil absorption
   • The total water absorbed over time

   Hint

   Think about what maximum means in this context.

4. 4.

   True or False: Sandy soils typically have a higher infiltration rate than clayey soils.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the size of the particles in each type of soil.

5. 5.

   Given an area with sandy soil and a known infiltration rate of 40 mm/hr, calculate the total infiltration for a rainfall event lasting 2 hours.

   Hint

   Remember the relationship between rate, time, and total volume.

6. 6.

   Evaluate how different land use practices might affect infiltration rates across a suburban area.

   Hint

   Consider the differences in surface characteristics and their impact on water movement.