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Abstract A model for steady state, isothermal oxygen diffusion into a cylindrical root surrounded by a water film of uniform thickness is proposed. Equations are developed which account for longitudinal oxygen flux through the intercellular gas spaces, radial flux through the water film, and a respiratory oxygen sink which is defined as a function of oxygen concentration. A method of computer analysis is outlined whereby the law of continuity is applied sequentially to small sections of root, such that the amount of oxygen diffusing into a section is equated with the oxygen diffusing out plus the respiratory consumption. The solution for the model defines a series of oxygen concentrations along the root length. From these data the amount of oxygen consumed in respiration which diffuses into the top of the root (plant aeration) and the amount diffusing radially from the soil (soil aeration) may be calculated, and effects of soil and plant characteristics examined.
Luxmoore et al. (Fri,) studied this question.