A simple model for predicting soil temperatures in desert ecosystems

We present a model for predicting soil temperatures in arid regions using current above surface conditions (temperature or temperature and solar radiation) and the annual sinusoidal behavior of temperature in the deeper soil profile. The model is based on that of Parton (Parton, W. J. 1984. Soil Sci. 139:93–101) and provides considerable temperature detail with a daily time step: maximum, minimum, and mean temperature at any depth; hourly temperature detail if desired. The error in predicted temperatures is about the same as those in models that require soil temperature inputs from at least one depth. This model, however, can be used for predicting soil temperatures in arid sites for which there are no soil temperature data or for predicting soil temperatures under future climates or environmental conditions. © 1992 The Williams and Wilkins.

Duke Scholars

Author James F. Reynolds Environmental Sciences and Policy