Compare drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation in terms of water use efficiency, weed pressure, energy requirements, and suitability for row crops.

• A. Sprinklers generally offer higher water use efficiency, lower weed pressure, and lower energy costs.
• B. Drip generally offers higher water use efficiency, lower weed pressure, and lower energy costs.
• C. Drip irrigation causes more evaporation losses and higher energy use than sprinklers.
• D. Sprinklers are unsuitable for row crops and always lead to poorer yields.

Answer: (B)

The question tests how two common irrigation systems differ in water efficiency, weed control, energy needs, and suitability for row crops. Drip irrigation applies water directly to the plant’s root zone through low-pressure emitters. This targeted delivery minimizes losses from evaporation and runoff, so overall water use efficiency is higher. Because the wetting is localized along the rows, soil between rows stays drier, which suppresses weed germination and growth, leading to lower weed pressure. The system’s low operating pressure and precise flow mean pumps don’t have to work as hard, giving lower energy costs. For row crops, drip fits well: emitters can be placed along each row (often under mulch), delivering consistent moisture where the plants need it most while keeping weeds down and saving water and energy.

Sprinkler systems wet a larger area, including row spaces, which increases evaporation and wind-drift losses. That reduces water use efficiency and tends to encourage weed growth between rows. They also require higher pressures and larger pumps, raising energy costs. While sprinklers can cover row crops, their performance is more variable with wind and canopy effects, making drip generally more efficient and easier to manage for many row-crop setups.