On the application of the boundary layer approximation for the simulation of density stratified flows in aquifers |
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| Authors: | Hillel Rubin |
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| Institution: | Department of Civil Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA |
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| Abstract: | Stratification of the density in groundwater flow stems from the contact between water which contains minerals in low concentration with water containing a high concentration of minerals. The flow in such a flow field should be simulated by solving simultaneously the equations of continuity, motion and solute transport, because solute concentration affects the dynamics of the flow. Such an approach is generally associated with complicated calculations and numerical schemes subject to problems of convergence and stability, as the basic equations are highly nonlinear.This study applies the phenomenological boundary layer approximation, and suggests a reference to three different zones in the flow field: (a) fresh water zone, (b) transition zone, and (c) mineralized water zone. In zones (a) and (c) it is assumed that the potential flow theory can be applied. In zone (b) the flow is nonpotential but the basic similarity conditions typical to boundary layers exist.The approach suggested in this study simplifies the mathematical models that should be used for the flow field simulation. This approach is especially attractive in cases where the Dupuit approximation is applicable. In such cases very often analytical solutions can be obtained for unidirectional flows. In cases that are too complicated for representation by analytical solutions, the method can be used for the creation of simplified numerical schemes.Various examples in this study demonstrate the application of the method for various field problems associated with steady state as well as unsteady state conditions.The simplicity of the method makes it useful for variety of problems. It can be used even by small institutions and small consulting firms, who have usually access to minicomputers and microprocessors. |
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