SIMULATED FLOW THROUGH THE ROOT XYLEM

Abstract
Flow through the xylem of a complex root system is simulated to measure xylem resistance to water flow, and to determine whether or not this resistance is significant. Equations are set up that model xylem water flow as if it were flow through thin tubes. The root characteristics needed to solve these equations are obtained from an earlier work. Xylem water flow is first considered for a single main root and its laterals. It decreases with age of the root or increase of root length, and it increases with the addition of laterals. The advantage of an increasing number of main roots is also shown. Finally, flow through the plant crown is compared to Thronthwaite and Blaney-Criddle evapotranspirational estimates. Less than 10 millibars of water pressure is needed to overcome xylem resistance, and, therefore, the resistance is considered negligible.