CA D82 Drip Irrigation Contractor Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf
- Which component is primarily responsible for controlling water flow in
- Filter
- Mainline
- Pressure regulator
- Drip emitter
a drip irrigation system?
Rationale: The pressure regulator ensures water is delivered at a
consistent pressure suitable for drip emitters, preventing over- or under-watering.
- What is the typical operating pressure range for most drip irrigation
- 5–10 psi
- 10–15 psi
- 15–30 psi
- 30–50 psi
systems?
Rationale: Drip systems are designed to operate efficiently at low
pressures, typically between 15–30 psi, to ensure uniform water distribution.
- What is the main purpose of a filter in a drip irrigation system?
- Reduce water pressure
- Prevent soil erosion
- Remove particles and debris
- Increase water flow
Rationale: Filters prevent clogging of emitters by removing sediments
and debris from the water supply. 1 / 3
- Which type of drip emitter delivers a uniform amount of water
- Turbulent emitter
- Pressure-compensating emitter
- Non-compensating emitter
- Adjustable emitter
regardless of pressure fluctuations?
Rationale: Pressure-compensating emitters maintain consistent flow
even with pressure variations, ensuring uniform irrigation.
- How should drip tubing be spaced in a row crop to achieve efficient
- 5–10 feet apart
- 12–24 inches apart
- 3–4 feet apart
- 6–8 feet apart
coverage?
Rationale: Emitter spacing and tubing placement depend on crop type
and root zone; most row crops are efficiently irrigated with 12–24 inch spacing.
- Which soil type typically requires closer emitter spacing?
- Sandy soil
- Loamy soil
- Clay soil
- Gravel
Rationale: Clay soils have lower infiltration rates and higher water
retention, requiring closer emitter spacing for even distribution.
- What is the most common cause of emitter clogging?
- Low water pressure
- Sediment buildup
- Excessive fertilizer
- Incorrect tubing
Rationale: Sediment and particulate matter in water are the primary
cause of emitter clogging; proper filtration is essential.
- Which water source requires pre-filtration before using in drip
- Municipal water
- Surface water from ponds or rivers
- Rainwater
- Bottled water 2 / 3
irrigation?
Rationale: Surface water contains sediments, algae, and debris that
can clog emitters; pre-filtration is necessary.
- How often should a drip irrigation system be flushed?
- Every day
- Once a month
- Every six months
- Once a year
Rationale: Periodic flushing removes accumulated debris from
mainlines and lateral lines, reducing clogging risk.
- What is the primary purpose of a backflow preventer in a drip
- Regulate pressure
- Prevent contamination of potable water
- Filter sediments
- Increase flow
system?
Rationale: Backflow preventers protect the main water supply from
contamination due to reverse flow from the irrigation system.
- Which material is most commonly used for drip tubing?
A. PVC
- Copper
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Galvanized steel
Rationale: Flexible polyethylene tubing is widely used for drip systems
because it is durable, UV-resistant, and easy to install.
- What is the recommended maximum emitter flow rate for most
- 0.1–0.2 gph
- 0.5–1 gph
- 0.5–2 gph
- 2–5 gph
landscape applications?
Rationale: Typical drip emitters release 0.5–2 gallons per hour,
allowing slow, deep watering without runoff.
- What is the function of a manifold in a drip irrigation system?
- Increase water pressure
- Distribute water evenly to multiple lines
- Filter debris
- Adjust flow rate
- / 3