Root System Analysis and Influence of Moisture on Soil Electrical Properties

Antonio M. Silva Filho, José R. S. Silva, Glaciano M. Fernandes, Lucas D. S. Morais, Antonio P. Coimbra and Wesley P. Calixto
Additional contact information
Antonio M. Silva Filho: Electrical, Mechanical & Computer Engineering School (EMC), Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania 74605-010, GO, Brazil
José R. S. Silva: Studies and Researches in Science and Technology Group, Federal Institute of Goias (IFG), Senador Canedo 75250-000, GO, Brazil
Glaciano M. Fernandes: Studies and Researches in Science and Technology Group, Federal Institute of Goias (IFG), Senador Canedo 75250-000, GO, Brazil
Lucas D. S. Morais: Studies and Researches in Science and Technology Group, Federal Institute of Goias (IFG), Senador Canedo 75250-000, GO, Brazil
Antonio P. Coimbra: Institute of Systems and Robotics, University of Coimbra, 3030-290 Coimbra, Portugal
Wesley P. Calixto: Electrical, Mechanical & Computer Engineering School (EMC), Federal University of Goias (UFG), Goiania 74605-010, GO, Brazil

Energies, 2021, vol. 14, issue 21, 1-17

Abstract: This paper proposes a methodology for plant root system and soil moisture analysis through the geoelectrical prospecting method. Overall, bench and field experiments are implemented to analyze the behavior of electrical conductivity of the soil in relation to moisture content and plant root system growth. Specifically, Wenner array and lateral profiling technique are used to stratify the soil in horizontal layers, performing in-depth analysis. Millet ( Pennisetum glaucum L.), bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) are used to analyze the root system behavior. Results show that the soil water dynamics can be observed through soil stratification in horizontal layers and the plant root system is correlated with apparent electrical conductivity of the soil. Thus, geoelectric prospecting methods can be used as an analysis tool, both of soil moisture dynamics and of plant roots, to support decision making regarding soil and crop management.

Keywords: geoelectric prospecting; apparent electrical conductivity; root system; soil electrical parameters (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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