Mathematical model of solute transport in rivers with storage zones using nonlinear dispersion flux approach

ABSTRACT

One-dimensional models of solute transport typically rely on the advection–dispersion equation (ADE) and thus cannot accurately simulate the solute transport phenomenon in rivers with storage zones. Our proposed model employs a minimum number of parameters (only one parameter) and focuses on simplicity and physical reasoning. This study mainly aims at investigating the applicability of nonlinear flux dispersion in the ADE. It then assesses the efficiency of the proposed model using hypothetical and real examples and employing other well-known models. The results of the present study and the observed concentrations indicate that the output of the developed model is highly compatible with the observed ones. Consequently, the proposed model can be recommended as an appropriate tool for simulation of solute transport in rivers with storage zones and can replace the available classic simulation models for natural rivers.

KEYWORDS:

• solute transport equation
• storage zone
• nonlinear flux
• dead zone
• dispersion flux
• transient storage

Editor A. Castellarin; Associate Editor M. Hutchins

Editor A. Castellarin; Associate Editor M. Hutchins

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.