GROUNDWATER FLOW MODELlING USING the FINITE DIFFERENCES METHOD AND the FINITE ELEMENTS METHOD – COMPARATIVE MODEL STUDIES

Abstract

The filtration of groundwater is a complicated process, which is determined by natural environmental factors (hydrogeological conditions) and anthropogenic impacts. Reliable predictions of the impact of the established extortions on the groundwater environment require the use of an appropriate research method that will allow for a precise representation of groundwater circulation. Such methods include numerical modelling of filtration processes, using a mathematical description of groundwater flow, based on assumed parameters and boundary conditions. For groundwater flow modelling, software based on the finite differences method FDM, using Modflow simulators, is most commonly used. Due to the numerous advantages, mainly in terms of greater precision in the representation of the complex geometry of the aquifers and objects affecting the water circulation, the alternative FEM finite elements method is becoming increasingly important. The article presents characteristic features of modelling using both methods. Based on the established imaginary research site, representing typical valley hydrogeological conditions, the paper presents the methodology of model implementation and numerical calculations of water flow using FDM and FEM methods, each in two variants of grid density. Obtained results are presented, with an attempt to compare the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.