Friction loss in an irrigation system is defined as?

Friction loss in an irrigation system refers to the loss of pressure that occurs due to the resistance that the water encounters as it flows through the pipes. This resistance is caused by the internal surface of the pipes, fittings, and any other components the water flows through. As water moves, it experiences friction against the walls of the pipes, which results in a decrease in pressure as the fluid moves from the supply source to the discharge point or sprinkler heads.

Understanding friction loss is crucial for the design and management of irrigation systems because it impacts the overall efficiency and effectiveness of watering crops or landscapes. Ignoring friction loss can lead to insufficient water pressure at the end of the system, causing uneven water distribution and potentially harming plant health.

While changes in pressure due to water flow and restrictions in valves can affect system performance, they represent different concepts within the broader discussion of fluid dynamics in irrigation. Evaporation also does not pertain to friction loss, as it concerns water loss to the atmosphere rather than losses within the irrigation system itself.