An Iterative Dual Reciprocity Method for a Class of Infiltration Problems in Two-Layered Soils with Different Types of Root-Water Uptake

This study delves into the investigation of steady infiltration problems within a two-layered soil, featuring periodic channels, and taking into account the presence of rootwater uptake, with four different types of root-water uptake considered. The problems are governed by a set of Richards’ equations accompanied by boundary interface conditions. To tackle these problems, we transform the system of Richards’ equations, along with the corresponding boundary conditions, into a set of steady diffusion-convection equations with transformed boundary conditions. This mathematical model is then addressed using a numerical approach that leverages the Iterative Dual Reciprocity Method (IDRM). Through this numerical method, we obtain solutions that characterize the distribution of hydraulic conductivity within the soil and root-water uptake in the root zone. Furthermore, we conduct comparisons and analyze the root-water uptake resulting from the four different types of root-water uptake. The findings of this study provide insights into how the type of root influences the amount of water absorbed by the roots