METEOROLOGY – HYDROLOGY & FLOOD CALCULATOR
Horton Infiltration
A precise tool.
What is the Horton Infiltration & How does it work?
Horton’s infiltration capacity decay model is a fundamental concept in hydrology that describes how the rate of water infiltration into soil decreases over time as the soil becomes saturated. This model assumes that the initial infiltration rate is high and decreases exponentially with time.Understanding this model helps in predicting and managing flood risks by estimating how quickly water can infiltrate into the ground after a rainfall event.
i(t) = i_0 e^{-kt}
i(t) = infiltration rate at time t, i_0 = initial infiltration rate, k = decay coefficient, t = time
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Horton’s infiltration capacity decay model?
It’s a hydrological model that describes how water infiltration into soil decreases exponentially as the soil becomes saturated.
How do I use this calculator?
Input the initial infiltration rate, decay coefficient, and time to get the infiltration rate at any given time.
What does the ‘i_0’ in the formula represent?
‘i_0’ represents the initial infiltration rate of water into the soil.
How is the decay coefficient ‘k’ determined?
The decay coefficient ‘k’ is typically determined through empirical data or soil testing specific to the area and conditions.
Why is this model important for flood risk management?
Understanding infiltration rates helps predict how quickly water moves into the ground, aiding in managing flood risks by estimating runoff.
Can this model be used for any type of soil?
While it’s a fundamental model, its accuracy can vary depending on soil type and other environmental factors. It works best with homogeneous soils.
What are the limitations of Horton’s infiltration model?
The model assumes uniform soil properties and does not account for factors like surface roughness or changes in rainfall intensity over time.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.