Premium
Efficient and accurate front tracking for two‐dimensional groundwater flow models
Author(s) -
SchaferPerini Annette L.,
Wilson John L.
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
water resources research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.863
H-Index - 217
eISSN - 1944-7973
pISSN - 0043-1397
DOI - 10.1029/91wr00720
Subject(s) - tracking (education) , displacement (psychology) , computer science , algorithm , particle (ecology) , sorting , mechanics , simulation , mathematical optimization , geology , mathematics , physics , psychology , pedagogy , oceanography , psychotherapist
Four new algorithms are presented to cost‐effectively delineate displacement fronts and capture zones via particle tracking in complex flow fields. These algorithms include methods of (1) defining path lines using “mixed distance and time particle tracking”; (2) computing displacement fronts and capture zones using “dynamic particle allocation front tracking” allowing insertion/deletion of particles to optimize front definition; (3) obtaining accurate breakthrough curves by using simultaneous “mass redistribution,” reallocating particle mass among particles defining the displacement front; and (4) determining production well breakthrough curves using “optimized sorting algorithms” when backward tracking to map capture zones. Examples are shown for capture zones and aquifer remediation applications. Comparisons are made to conventional algorithms. Results show that the number of particles required to define displacement fronts and breakthrough curve is a function of time, position, and How field complexity. Dynamic front tracking results in significant savings of storage and computational expense, even for relatively simple velocity fields. A corresponding increase in the accuracy of breakthrough curves is obtained.