Numerical Solution of Richards's Equation in Unsaturated Flow using Finite Volume Method

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Former Ms Student of Water Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahid Chamran University

2 Professor of Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Shahid Chamran University

Abstract

Improvement in numerical techniques and computers now make it possible to solve rather complicated porous media flow problems. In this paper, Richards's equation is solved by control volume method. A computer model was developed for calculating water content and pressure head in unsaturated soils. For determination of soils hydraulic parameters, this model is linked with RETC code. Results of model are compared with experimental data and show that control volume method presents a correct solution of the Richards equation.

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