Hydraulic conductivity fields (K) and degradation rate constants [alpha] (a) are commonly used in predicting the fate and transport of reactive contaminants. The natural heterogeneity in aquifer porous materials and its effect on hydrological parameters such as K and [alpha] a has to be accounted for by using an appropriate stochastic approach. The spatial distribution of K and its correlation with a were examined. Random fields of K having prescribed mean, variance, and correlation lengths were generated using the HYDROG_EN method. Transport simulations were conducted for an ensemble of two-dimensionally heterogeneous aquifers. Both positive and negative correlations of K and [alpha] a were considered. The solute's remaining mass in both the positive and negative correlation scenarios was found to be, on average, within a small range. Concentration profiles for a positive K-[alpha] a correlation displayed a more uniform behavior of the contaminated plume, compared to a more variable spreading in the negatively correlated cases.

This book provides a unified and comprehensive overview of physical explanations of the stochastic concepts of solute transport processes, important scaling issues, and practical tools for the analysis of solute transport.

This book describes a major method in modelling the flow of water and transport of solutes in the subsurface, a subject of considerable interest in the exploitation and preservation of water resources. The stochastic approach allows the uncertainty which affects various properties and parameters to be incorporated in models of subsurface flow and transport. These much more realistic models are of greater use in, for example, modelling the transport and build-up of contaminants in groundwater. The volume is based on the second Kovacs Colloquium organised by the International Hydrological Programme (UNESCO) and the International Association of Hydrological Sciences. Fifteen leading scientists with international reputations review the latest developments in this area. The book is a valuable reference work for graduate students, research workers and professionals in government and public institutions, interested in hydrology, environmental issues, soil physics, petroleum engineering, geological engineering and applied mathematics.