Year
2020
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 2-hour lecture weekly
1 x 2-hour on-line tutorial fortnightly
Enrolment not permitted
1 of EASC3741, EASC8772, WARM8772 has been successfully completed
Assumed knowledge
This topic assumes University graduate-level Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Hydrology or a relevant discipline of Science or Engineering.
Course context
Distance students will need a good quality internet connection and computer access, and may require a computer with a camera and/or microphone headset for FLO Live or SKYPE interaction with the topic coordinator.
Topic description
This topic offers the knowledge needed to investigate the dynamics of groundwater flow in aquifers. The topic is delivered in four parts: Part 1 Groundwater and the hydrologic cycle - which covers the movement of water in the earth; Part 2 Groundwater flow to wells - which covers groundwater extraction situations and aquifer testing through pump tests; Part 3 Groundwater investigation techniques - which covers laboratory techniques and the fundamentals of groundwater investigation; and Part 4 which covers issues in Australia relating to groundwater.
Educational aims
The educational aim of this topic is to instil in students' knowledge and an appreciation of the storage and transport of groundwater, and its importance as a global water resource and integral part of the hydrologic cycle.
Expected learning outcomes
At the completion of the topic, students are expected to be able to:
  1. Describe the governing equations for groundwater flow and solute transport
  2. Estimate flows between aquifers and surface water systems
  3. Explain the principles of radial flow associated with groundwater wells,and be able to use these concepts to undertake pump tests analysis
  4. Demonstrate enhanced problem-solving, critical-thinking and reasoning abilities