Energy Analysis for Farming Systems
In a thermodynamic analysis of farming systems, input
energy consists of direct solar energy (photosynthesis),
indirect solar energy (rainfall), stored solar energy (soil
organic matter), and energy subsidies such as fertilizers,
pesticides, and fuel that facilitate the conversion of solar
energy to crop yield by maintaining structure of the cropland.
Output energy is equivalent to the energy released by
oxidation of the crop yield.