Sprinkler Irrigation Droplet Dynamics. I: Review and Theoretical Development

Abstract

AbstractDroplet dynamics simulations are key to predicting sprinkler irrigation precipitation patterns. This paper includes derivations of equations describing droplet motion through a steady, uniform horizontal airflow (wind). The assumptions on which sprinkler irrigation droplet dynamics is based are stated, and the limitations they entail are highlighted. The motion of droplets is treated as an impulsively started accelerated motion of rigid spheres, originating at the sprinkler nozzle with known initial conditions, and involving no interactions between themselves. The following steps are used in the derivation of pertinent equations. First, the forces that the ambient air exerts on a water droplet undergoing a steady or accelerated rectilinear relative motion are defined, and their significance in the context of sprinkler irrigation droplet dynamics is discussed, based on which relevant equations are derived. This is followed by a discussion on the dynamics of accelerated motion of a water droplet thr...