A SHANNON ENTROPY-BASED GENERAL DERIVATION OF INFILTRATION EQUATIONS
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Using the Shannon entropy theory, a general framework is developed for deriving six well-known infiltration equations. Assuming spatially averaged infiltration as a random variable, this framework leads to (1) a general probability density function for infiltration and (2) a general relation between cumulative infiltration and infiltration capacity, a kind of infiltration rating curve. The general probability density function can specialize into probability density functions associated with the Horton, Kostiakov, Green-Ampt, Philip two-term, Holtan, and Overton equations. Likewise, the general relation leads to these six infiltration equations. In this manner, the general framework obviates the need for deriving these infiltration equations separately from the theory. 2011 American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.