A POTENTIAL THEORY-BASED FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL FOR TRANSIENT RECHARGE

A finite element model based on potential theory has been developed to study watertable fluctuations for physically realizable transient rec harge of infinite aquifers. A basin infiltration rate, similar to that observed in field experiments conducted for recharge of turbid playa waters through excavated basins to the Ogallala aquifer in Texas High Plains, has been used as a source strength model for simulation of the water table rise. The finite element model has been validated by comp aring simulation results with Hele-Shaw analogue results reported in t he literature. A parametric sensitivity analysis has been conducted to examine the effects of changes in the recharge rate parameters as the y influence the rise of the water table with respect to time and the r ime to achieve rite peak of the water table. The relative influence of these parameters on rise of the water table is important for design o f a basin recharge system. The results of this study indicate that the finite element model can be used as an effective numerical tool to st udy the response of the water table when subjected to a variable recha rge rare.