Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya · BarcelonaTech

Aquifer-Dependant Natural Systems (250MAG007) – Course 2025/26 PDF

Contents

Introduction to natural systems dependent on aquifers. Hydroecological importance and ecosystem services. Relationship between surface and groundwater hydrology. Concepts of saturated zone, unsaturated zone, and hydraulic connection. Introduction to water balance and the spatial and temporal scale of processes.

Dedication

3h Large group + 5h 20m Self Study
Total: 8h 20m

Movement of water and gas in the unsaturated zone. Richards equation and boundary conditions. Retention curves and conductivity curves. Hysteresis and soil heterogeneity. Multiphase flow at the pore scale. Applications in contamination and recharge processes.

Dedication

6h Large group + 10h 40m Self Study
Total: 16h 40m

Types of recharge: diffuse, focused, and event-based. Recharge estimation: empirical methods, balances, and modelling. Interaction between recharge and land use. Role of vegetation and evapotranspiration. Temporal analysis: seasonality and long-term trends.

Dedication

6h Large group + 10h 40m Self Study
Total: 16h 40m

Groundwater–surface water exchange. Hyporheic zone and vertical flow. Springs as discharge points. Aquifer-fed wetlands. Influence of alluvium and river regime. Temporal variability of flow and hydraulic connection.

Dedication

9h Large group + 16h Self Study
Total: 25h

Movement of water with different density due to salinity or temperature. Variable-density flow equations. Convection and instability in saturated media. Applications in coastal systems and saline contamination areas. Specific numerical modelling.

Dedication

3h Large group + 5h 20m Self Study
Total: 8h 20m

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD). Controlling factors: geology, gradient, and density. Seawater intrusion: salinity balance and intrusion front. Ghyben-Herzberg equation. Impacts of coastal groundwater extraction. Management and monitoring strategies.

Dedication

9h Large group + 16h Self Study
Total: 25h

Conceptual and numerical modelling of natural systems. Flow and transport simulation tools (MODFLOW, SEAWAT, HYDRUS). Spatial and temporal scales. Validation with field data. Impact assessment and management scenarios. Model limitations and uncertainty.

Dedication

16h Large group + 9h Self Study
Total: 25h