MODELING OF HILLSLOPE RUNOFF PROCESSES

The present study is aimed at modelling hillslope flows with emphasis on subsurface storm-flows that involve macropores. The physical proces ses connected with the runoff process on a hillslope are identified. T he components which are considered in modelling the hillslope flow are the nature of flows in the macropore and micropore domains, the spati al and temporal characteristics of the macropore network, the interact ion between the domains, and the initiation of flow in the macropores. Both Horton and Dunne's variable source area generation mechanisms ar e explicitly incorporated in the model. The dominant physical processe s governing hillslope runoff are conceptualized in terms of parameters which are derived from the physical properties of the soil, the natur e of macropores, and hillslope geometry. The conceptualization of the model is then used to examine infiltration and runoff production. This helps to compute the development of the groundwater table, runoff hyd rograph, and soil moisture profile.