22.4. Methods of Estimating PET

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does PET stand for and what does it measure?

   Hint

   Think about what types of processes involve water loss from land.

2. 2.

   Name one empirical method to estimate PET.

   Hint

   It is based on temperature and daylight.

3. 3.

   What does the Thornthwaite method primarily rely on?

   • Mean daily temperature and annual rainfall
   • Mean monthly temperature and day length
   • Mean humidity and wind speed

   Hint

   Recall the specific parameters that this method is based on.

4. 4.

   Is the Blaney-Criddle method useful in estimating PET for tropical climates?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the geographical limitations of empirical methods.

5. 5.

   Given the mean monthly temperature and daylight hours for a tropical region, calculate the PET using the Blaney-Criddle method and compare it with the Thornthwaite method outcomes to discuss discrepancies.

   Hint

   Focus on the characteristics of the climate data provided.

6. 6.

   Analyze a scenario where you have limited weather data but need to estimate PET for irrigation planning. Which method would you choose and why?

   Hint

   Consider the trade-offs between data availability and estimation accuracy.