Three-dimensional structure of preferential flow and its influencing factors in Agricultural area of Sheikhupura,Pakistan

Preferential flow is the Movement of water through specific pathways in soil rather than a more uniform flow through the soil structure.Because of soil heterogeneity,such as fractures,root channels,or wormholes,these preferential flow pathways frequently form.Particularly with depth in the soil,this fractal pattern can make it challenging to understand and describe the behavior of preferred flow routes.For accurate water and solute transport modelling and forecasting in the subsurface,it is need of hour to comprehend and describe the growth and evolution of preferential flow routes.In present study various methodologies have been utilized including field observations,soil samples,and imaging techniques including Origin Lab Pro,and Sketchup,to examine the three-dimensional structure of the preferred flow.We built a three-dimensional map of the favored flow pathways and examined their distribution patterns using data from various agricultural land areas.This study was carried on an adaptive research farm in Pakistan's Sheikhupura.In this study,results have been represented in a 3D representation to better understand the preferential flow.Four 120 * 120 cm plots were chosen,and on four plots,a dye tracing experiment was carried out to confirm the solute and water's preferred flow patterns.Data has been analyzed in Origin Lab to create 3D graphs and tables and used Sketchup-2021 Pro to create 3D images.According to the water flow patterns discovered in this study,preferred flow is strongest at the higher site free of compaction,where macro-pores continuity is preserved.Due to the compaction impact,the micro-porosity decreased,and it grew weaker on the lower side.The results demonstrate that preferential flow is most prominent in areas with minimal compaction and a preserved continuity of macro-pores.Conversely,the impact of compaction leads to a decrease in micro-porosity and weaker preferential flow patterns in compacted regions.Moreover,this study reveals how compaction and subsequent recovery processes influence soil's susceptibility to water flow and surface runoff.By presenting comprehensive 3D representations,this research offers a superior understanding of the creation and evolution of water flow channels.Overall,this study enhances knowledge of preferential flow and its role in nutrient and water cycling within natural and agricultural ecosystems.The insights gained from this research can inform the development of improved management strategies for agricultural lands,facilitating sustainable and efficient water resource management.