What is the major cost component in a drip irrigation system?
Analysis & Theory
Piping and fittings usually account for the largest share of system costs.
Which of the following is a fixed cost in drip irrigation systems?
C
Initial system installation
Analysis & Theory
Initial installation is a one-time fixed investment, unlike recurring operational costs.
Operating cost in drip irrigation primarily includes:
B
Electricity, labor, and fertilizer
Analysis & Theory
Operating costs include recurring expenses like power, labor, and fertigation chemicals.
Which factor does NOT significantly affect the cost of a drip system?
C
Pipe material and length
Analysis & Theory
Wind speed has no direct impact on drip system cost, unlike crop type or layout.
Which type of emitter may increase system cost due to its precision and pressure compensation?
C
Pressure-compensating emitter
Analysis & Theory
Pressure-compensating emitters are costlier due to advanced internal components.
Which component requires recurring replacement, contributing to annual cost?
Analysis & Theory
Emitters and filters are prone to clogging and wear, needing regular maintenance or replacement.
Economies of scale apply to drip systems by:
A
Increasing labor per hectare
B
Raising total cost per unit area
C
Reducing cost per hectare as area increases
Analysis & Theory
Larger systems spread fixed costs over more area, reducing unit cost per hectare.
Which of the following best defines payback period?
A
Time to finish irrigation cycle
B
Time to install the system
C
Time to recover investment through savings/yield
Analysis & Theory
Payback period is the time taken for the system’s economic benefits to match the initial investment.
Which parameter is essential for calculating water cost in drip irrigation?
C
Volume of water used and electricity/tariff rates
Analysis & Theory
Water cost is based on volume pumped and energy consumption or tariffs for supplied water.
Subsidy for drip irrigation systems typically applies to:
C
Capital (initial) investment
Analysis & Theory
Government subsidies generally assist with capital expenditure like system installation and materials.