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Model ID: 4431

Calculation of the Height of the Water Table in an Unconfined Aquifier

This model demonstrates COMSOL Multiphysics application to a benchmark case of steady-state fluid flow and transient solute transport through a vertical cross section in an unconfined aquifer.

The model estimates the height of the water table - the upper surface of the unconfined aquifer.

Because of the profound geologic heterogeneity, the solute moves within a highly irregular flow field and undergoes strong anisotropic dispersion. Van der Heijde classifies this case as “Level 2” with enough potentially difficult parameter combinations to test a code’s ability to tackle realistic hydrologic situations.

The results from this model show that COMSOL Multiphysics is an effective tool for simulating fluid flow and solute transport in the heterogeneous porous media and highly irregular flow fields common to field-scale applications. The Moving Mesh (ALE) application mode proves to be highly efficient at calculating the water table boundary even for a steady state flow field focused upon here.

SOLUTE TRANSPORT: This model demonstrates a benchmark case of steady-state fluid flow and transient solute transport through a vertical cross section in an unconfined aquifer. Concentration of the pollutant in the aquifer, as a function of time, is shown.

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