A finite element approach to watershed runoff

A numerical finite element based implicit recurrence relationship is developed for the analysis of watershed direct runoff problems. The algorithm is presented in a two dimensional form for the full momentum and continuity equations and unidimensionally for the kinematic wave theory. Since the whole domain is represented and solved as a single set of matrix equations, the advent of shocks for domains where appreciable changes in slope and/or resistance to flow occur, is immediately distinguishable.