Lab-0008

Exploring a shallow unconfined aquifer

Model
(self-contained)

Duration
1.0 hrs

Updated
2020/04/03

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Contributor(s)

    Gregory Tucker at CIRES, CSDMS, and Geological Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder.

Introduction

This lab explores the physics behind unconfined groundwater aquifers. The lab is based on a 1D numerical model of an aquifer formed on top of a horizontal impermeable unit. The calculates the evolution of the aquifer's thickness profile, with an impermeable "wall" on one end, a seepage face on the other, and a constant recharge rate from above. Students can experiment with different values of hydraulic conductivity and different recharge rates. The model embedded in the notebook generates an animation showing the water table over time. One the model has been run, students can use matplotlib commands to plot the discharge and vertically averaged Darcian velocity.

Classroom organization
Lab is designed for undergraduate students majoring in earth sciences (hydrology, environmental sciences, hydrogeology). The notebook is demonstration style and gives participants the possibility to explore interactively.

Learning objectives
Skills

• basic plotting with python matplot lib

Key concepts

• groundwater and shallow aquifers
• hydraulic conductivity
• recharge
• Darcy's Law

Lab notes

The notebook can be used as part of a paper assignment or problem set on groundwater.

References