Parametrization of Contaminant Transport through an Anisotropic Unconfined Aquifer

Abstract

A duo two-dimensional deterministic model of contaminant transport through a homogeneous and anisotropic unconfined aquifer is developed. This model is then utilized to evaluate the effects of such hydrogeologic parameters as convection, dispersion, and chemical adsorption on the build-up, steady-state, and recovery phases of the subsurface contaminant transport. Figures are presented illustrating the dependence of the subsurface transport upon principal velocity ratios, dispersivity ratios, and the adsorption coefficient. The results clearly indicate a distinct dominance of the principal velocity ratio (i.e., degree of aquifer anisotropy) on the transport of subsurface contaminants.