Models and Modeling

<p>An Introduction to Models and Modeling in the Earth and Environmental Sciences</p> offers students and professionals the opportunity to learn about groundwater modeling, starting <p>from the basics. Using clear, physically-intuitive examples, the author systematically takes</p> <p>us on a tour that begins with the simplest representations of fluid flow and builds through</p> <p>the most important equations of groundwater hydrology. Along the way, we learn how</p> <p>to develop a conceptual understanding of a system, how to choose boundary and initial</p> <p>conditions, and how to exploit model symmetry. Other important topics covered include</p> <p>non-dimensionalization, sensitivity, and finite differences. Written in an eclectic and readable</p> <p>style that will win over even math-phobic students, this text lays the foundation for a</p> <p>successful career in modeling and is accessible to anyone that has completed two semesters</p> <p>of Calculus.</p> <p>Although the popular image of a geologist or environmental scientist may be the rugged</p> <p>adventurer, heading off into the wilderness with a compass and a hand level, the disciplines</p> <p>of geology, hydrogeology, and environmental sciences have become increasingly quantitative.</p> <p>Today’s earth science professionals routinely work with mathematical and computer models,</p> <p>and career success often demands a broad range of analytical and computational skills.</p> An Introduction to Models and Modeling in the Earth and Environmental Sciencesis written for <p>students and professionals who want to learn the craft of modeling, and do more than just</p> <p>run “black box” computer simulations.</p>