he Bowen ratio describes how available heat at the Earth's surface is partitioned between latent heating (changes in phase of water) and sensible heating (conduction and convection). An increase in the Bowen ratio of agricultural land is the consequence of a(n) [(increased) or (reduced)] supply of soil moisture.
To determine the consequence of an increased or reduced supply of soil moisture on the Bowen ratio of agricultural land, we need to understand what the Bowen ratio represents.
The Bowen ratio is defined as the ratio of sensible heat flux to latent heat flux at the Earth's surface. It provides valuable information about how heat is exchanged between the land surface and the atmosphere. Sensible heat flux refers to the transfer of heat through conduction and convection, while latent heat flux refers to the transfer of heat through changes in the phase of water (evaporation or condensation).
Now, let's analyze the relationship between the Bowen ratio and soil moisture supply in agricultural land.
1. Increased Supply of Soil Moisture: If there is an increased supply of soil moisture in agricultural land, it means that there is more water available for evaporation. As a result, the latent heat flux will increase (since more water is evaporating), while the sensible heat flux will remain relatively constant. This leads to a decrease in the Bowen ratio. Therefore, an increased supply of soil moisture generally results in a reduced Bowen ratio.
2. Reduced Supply of Soil Moisture: Conversely, if there is a reduced supply of soil moisture in agricultural land, it means that there is less water available for evaporation. This causes the latent heat flux to decrease, while the sensible heat flux remains relatively constant. Consequently, the Bowen ratio increases. Therefore, a reduced supply of soil moisture leads to an increased Bowen ratio.
In summary, an increased supply of soil moisture generally leads to a reduced Bowen ratio, while a reduced supply of soil moisture causes an increased Bowen ratio.