42.7. Evapotranspiration from the Root Zone

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define Evapotranspiration.

   Hint

   Think about both soil and plant processes.

2. 2.

   What is Potential ET?

   Hint

   Consider what would happen if the soil was never dry.

3. 3.

   What does Evapotranspiration encompass?

   • Only evaporation
   • Only transpiration
   • Both evaporation and transpiration

   Hint

   Remember what two processes contribute to ET.

4. 4.

   True or False: Actual ET is always greater than Potential ET.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about limits based on available moisture.

5. 5.

   A farmer uses tools to measure soil moisture and determines that the Potential ET is 12 mm per day. However, actual ET after a week of dry conditions is only 5 mm per day. Why is it important for the farmer to know this difference in values?

   Hint

   Consider how these measurements influence irrigation needs.

6. 6.

   Evaluate the potential impact of climate change on evapotranspiration rates in arid regions. What might be the implications for agriculture?

   Hint

   Think about temperature effects on ET and plant survival.