An analytic benchmark test for karst-aquifer flow |
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| Authors: | David E Loper |
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| Institution: | 1. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Institute, Florida State University , Tallahassee , FL 30306 , USA loper@gfdi.fsu.edu |
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| Abstract: | A benchmark test for flow in karstic aquifers is presented in the form of an exact solution of the harmonic variations of water flux and head within a karst conduit that is imbedded within a three-dimensional porous matrix having a free surface. The variations are driven by a prescribed variation of head applied at one end of the conduit. The benchmark consists of expressions for the spring discharge as a function of time and the conduit head and flux as functions of distance along the conduit and time. These expressions contain three dimensionless parameters, permitting development of a wide range of specific benchmark tests. The expressions are particularly simple in the case of an infinitely deep aquifer. This limiting solution should provide the most severe test for two-dimensional models of karst aquifer flow. Another limiting case of interest is that in which the conduit diameter is equal to the water depth. This limiting solution should provide the easiest test for two-dimensional models. |
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| Keywords: | Karst aquifer Conduit Flow Benchmark test |
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