Center Pivot Irrigation
Standards Assessed: 1.1, 1.3, 2.2, 2.3, 2.5, 3.1, 3.3, 3.4
Name __________________
Algebra 2
Directions: Center pivot irrigation, also called
circle irrigation, is a method of crop irrigation
in which equipment rotates around a pivot. A
circular area centered on the pivot is
irrigated, often creating a circular pattern in
crops when viewed from above. Center pivots
are typically less than 500m in length (circle
radius) with the most common size being the
standard ¼ mile machine (400m).
For the diagrams we will assume the center pivot has length of ¼ mile.
Shaded areas represent the regions that are receiving water. If you have a
square piece of land with only the inscribed circle receiving irrigation,
what percent of the land is NOT receiving water? Make sure you include
an explanation with necessary computations, sketches, formulas, and
notes.
Often times the center pivot will not be set to water in a full circle. Using the sketch
below, what percent of the total land is currently being irrigated? (Note: you may need to
use a protractor to help determine some angles.)