ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on the development of physically based models without entering the mathematical morass. The objective of unsteady flow tests is to determine the aquifer parameter estimations from time-drawdown field measurements in the main and/or observation wells by processing them through physically based and simplified mathematical models. Interpretation of field time-drawdown measurements or aquifer parameters calculated thereof is appreciated with great confidence if the planner should have a sound knowledge about the mutual relationships between the aquifer parameters and basic test variables. The aquifer parameters are hidden in the field test data and their identifications are possible only after a physically plausible model is developed for the prevailing field circumstances. Aquifer test data analysis is an art leading to reliable hydraulic parameter identifications rather than a mechanical curve fitting. An adaptive slope-matching method is used to evaluate the aquifer heterogeneity from constant rate aquifer test data.