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Distribution uniformity is the primary factor influencing losses in irrigation systems because it refers to how evenly water is distributed over the entire irrigated area. When distribution uniformity is poor, some areas may receive too much water, leading to runoff and deep percolation losses, while others may not receive enough water, affecting crop health and yield. This variability can significantly impact water efficiency, as it can result in the overuse of water resources.

In highly efficient irrigation systems, uniformity is critical to ensure that all parts of the field receive the appropriate amount of water needed for optimal plant growth. Systems designed with better distribution uniformity are able to minimize water losses and enhance overall productivity, making it a key consideration in irrigation design and management. Factors like evaporation rates and soil texture can influence irrigation efficiency, but they do not directly impact the consistency of water application as much as distribution uniformity does.