CIT Drip and Micro-Irrigation Systems

Question 1

What is the primary water-saving advantage of drip irrigation over sprinkler irrigation?

Accepted Answer

Water is applied at the root zone, reducing evaporation and wind drift

Answer

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, significantly reducing losses from evaporation, wind drift, and surface runoff.

Question 2

What is a pressure-compensating (PC) drip emitter?

Accepted Answer

An emitter that maintains a constant flow rate across a range of inlet pressures

Answer

Pressure-compensating emitters deliver consistent flow rates (e.g., 1 GPH) across a wide pressure range, typically 15–45 PSI.

Question 3

What is the typical operating pressure range for drip irrigation systems?

Accepted Answer

15–30 PSI

Answer

Drip irrigation systems operate at 15–30 PSI, far lower than sprinkler systems, to deliver water slowly through small emitter orifices.

Question 4

What minimum mesh size filter is recommended upstream of drip emitters?

Accepted Answer

120-mesh

Answer

A minimum 120-mesh filter is recommended for drip emitters to capture fine particles that would clog the small emitter orifices.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a pressure regulator installed in a drip irrigation zone?

Accepted Answer

Reduce and stabilize pressure to protect drip tubing and emitters

Answer

A pressure regulator reduces incoming supply pressure to the correct operating range (15–30 PSI) to protect drip components from damage.

CIT - Certified Irrigation Technician Practice Test