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Diffusivity and One-Dimensional Absorption Experiments¹

ABSTRACT

Profiles of normalized volumetric soil water content, , during one-dimensional absorption are often found to provide a unique profile in terms of the Boltzmann similarity variable, . Traditionally, () data have been used to obtain the diffusivity-water content function D() by the method of Bruce and Klute. This paper highlights the well-known inadequacy of this method, and outlines a procedure for deriving D() by the fitting of a mathematical function to the primary experimental data set, namely (). An analytical expression for D() scaled by sorptivity is provided. A function of the form (1-)^p is shown to fit the () of a fine sand adequately and provide a D() function that accommodates the soil water diffusivity measured using other methods at near-saturation.

¹ Contribution from the Plant Physiology Division, DSIR, Palmerston North, and the Soil Science Department, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.

² Scientist, DSIR, Senior Lecturer, Massey Univ., and Technician, DSIR, respectively.

Received for publication December 6, 1982. Accepted for publication March 21, 1983.

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