NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF THE HILLSLOPE RUNOFF PROCESSES
Abstract
The processes of subsurface, open channel, and overland flow, the primary components in hillslope hydrology, are modeled. A completely coupled finite element computer model is used to solve the Richard's equation for the saturated/unsaturated subsurface flow, and the Saint Venant equations for the open channel and overland flow components. Each component is described, the solution procedure outlined, and the individual model verified. The subsurface-overland coupled model is tested for a hypothetical watershed and verified. The fully coupled model is then employed in determining the conditions under with the espoused theories of runoff on hillslopes are valid. Each of these major runoff machanisms is observed in the simulations undertaken. Special consideration of the effect of layered surface soils is also presented.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Civil engineering
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