Two-Dimensional Basin Flow with Irregular Bottom Configuration

Abstract

Two-dimensional flow from a point or line source is simulated in an irrigated basin with a nonlevel soil surface; the goal is to predict the distribution uniformity of infiltrated depths. The zero-inertia approximation to the equations of motion allows computation in both wet and dry areas. A fully implicit, nonlinear finite-difference scheme is developed for the solution, but practical numerical considerations suggest local linearization instead. Both isotropic and anisotropic resistance to flow are considered. Results in basins with irregular bottom configurations and small inflows show stream advance confined to the lowest elevations in the basin.