Theoretical analysis of the worthiness of Henry and Elder problems as benchmarks of density-dependent groundwater flow models |
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Institution: | 1. Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA), CSIC, Jordi Girona 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain;2. Department of Geotechnical Engineering and Geosciences, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Jordi Girona 1-3, 08034 Barcelona, Spain;3. Associated Unit: Hydrogeology Group (UPC-CSIC), Spain;4. Department of Earth Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain |
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Abstract: | Computer models must be tested to ensure that the mathematical statements and solution schemes accurately represent the physical processes of interest. Because the availability of benchmark problems for testing density-dependent groundwater models is limited, one should be careful in using these problems appropriately. Details of a Galerkin finite-element model for the simulation of density-dependent, variably saturated flow processes are presented here. The model is tested using the Henry salt-water intrusion problem and Elder salt convection problem. The quality of these benchmark problems is then evaluated by solving the problems in the standard density-coupled mode and in a new density-uncoupled mode. The differences between the solutions indicate that the Henry salt-water intrusion problem has limited usefulness in benchmarking density-dependent flow models because the internal flow dynamics are largely determined by the boundary forcing. Alternatively, the Elder salt-convection problem is more suited to the model testing process because the flow patterns are completely determined by the internal balance of pressure and gravity forces. |
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