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Models and Modeling: An Introduction for Earth and Environmental Scientists offers students and professionals the opportunity to learn about groundwater modeling, starting from the basics. Using clear, physically-intuitive examples, the author systematically takes us on a tour that begins with the simplest representations of fluid flow and builds through the most important equations of groundwater hydrology. Along the way, we learn how to develop a conceptual understanding of a system, how to choose boundary and initial conditions, and how to exploit model symmetry. Other important topics covered include non-dimensionalization, sensitivity, and finite differences. Written in an eclectic and readable style that will win over even math-phobic students, this text lays the foundation for a successful career in modeling and is accessible to anyone that has completed two semesters of Calculus.
Although the popular image of a geologist or environmental scientist may be the rugged adventurer, heading off into the wilderness with a compass and a hand level, the disciplines of geology, hydrogeology, and environmental sciences have become increasingly quantitative. Today's earth science professionals routinely work with mathematical and computer models, and career success often demands a broad range of analytical and computational skills. Models and Modeling is written for students and professionals who want to learn the craft of modeling, and do more than just run "black box" computer simulations.
About the companion website, xi
Introduction, 1
1 Modeling basics, 4
2 A model of exponential decay, 9
3 A model of water quality, 31
4 The Laplace equation, 42
5 The Poisson equation, 62
6 The transient diffusion equation, 87
7 The Theis equation, 122
8 The transport equation, 141
9 Heterogeneity and anisotropy, 177
10 Approximation, error, and sensitivity, 195
11 A case study, 210
12 Closing remarks, 233
Appendix A A heuristic approach to nondimensionalization, 236
Appendix B Evaluating implicit equations, 238
Appendix C Matrix solution for implicit algorithms, 243
Index, 247
Dr. Jerry P. Fairley received his PhD in Earth Resources Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. He was the Chief Hydrologist for Site Characterization on the US- DOE's Yucca Mountain Project (1993-1995), and worked as a modeler for the Earth Sciences Division of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. He is currently a Professor of Geology at the University of Idaho, Department of Geological Sciences.
