Question

Distance of throw of water through a sprinkler nozzle is not a function of :

• A. The operating pressure
• B. Size and shape of the nozzle
• C. Distance between laterals
• D. Angle of nozzle opening

Hint:

Remember that the physical performance of a single sprinkler nozzle (such as discharge and throw) depends solely on its own hydraulic parameters. Field spacing (laterals) is a consequence of this throw, not its cause.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The distance of throw ($R$) represents the radius of the circular area wetted by a single sprinkler nozzle.
It is determined by the hydraulic parameters of the sprinkler and nozzle design.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the factors influencing the physical distance of throw:
- Operating pressure: Higher operating pressure increases the velocity of water exiting the nozzle, directly increasing the distance of throw. Thus, it is a function of pressure.
- Size and shape of the nozzle: Larger nozzle diameters allow more water to exit with greater momentum, which increases the distance of throw. Thus, it is a function of nozzle geometry.
- Angle of nozzle opening (trajectory angle): The angle at which water is projected (typically $23^\circ$ to $30^\circ$) determines the projectile range. Thus, it is a function of nozzle angle.
- Distance between laterals: This is a field layout parameter. It is the spacing decided by engineers *based* on the distance of throw to ensure proper overlap of water. The physical distance of throw of an individual nozzle is completely independent of where other lateral lines are placed.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The distance of throw is not a function of the distance between laterals, which corresponds to Option (C).