Author(s): Eric M. Valentine; Zulfiqar Ali; David C. Swailes
Linked Author(s): Eric Valentine
Keywords: Longitudinal dispersion; Natural channels; Pools; Riffles; Numerical model
Abstract: A one-dimensional two-zone mathematical model, comprising a pair of advection-dispersion equations coupled by a mass exchange term, is proposed to study longitudinal dispersion in channels with sequences of pools and riffles. An implicit finite-difference numerical scheme is employed, and its effectiveness is assessed with reference to known analytical solutions. Sets of longitudinal dispersion experiments were performed on various simple geometries of sequences of pools and riffles developed in a laboratory flume. A neutrally buoyant saline dispersant was used and detected with a conductivity method. The results are compared with corresponding numerical solutions to calibrate the two-zone model. The effectiveness of the numerical schemes in solving the two zone model is demonstrated.
Year: 2001