Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Water conveyance efficiency ($E_c$) evaluates the water losses (such as seepage and evaporation) that occur as water is transported through canals, channels, and pipes from the source to the field.
Key Formula or Approach:
The formula is:
\[ E_c = \frac{W_f}{W_r} \times 100\% \]
where:
- $W_f$ is the water delivered to the agricultural field or irrigation plot.
- $W_r$ is the water diverted or delivered from the reservoir, river, or primary source.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the ratios presented in the options:
- Option (A): Water delivered to the irrigation plot ($W_f$) divided by water delivered from the source ($W_r$). This represents the water conveyance efficiency ($E_c$).
- Option (C): Water reached and stored in the root zone ($W_s$) divided by the water delivered to the field ($W_f$). This represents the ______water application efficiency______ ($E_a$).
- Option (D): This is the inverse of water application efficiency, which is incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Water conveyance efficiency is the ratio of water delivered to the irrigation plot to the water delivered from the source, corresponding to option (A).