Accuracy of kinematic wave and diffusion wave approximations for space‐independent flows on infiltrating surfaces

Abstract

AbstractError equations for the kinematic wave and diffusion wave approximations were derived under simplified conditions for space‐independent flows occurring on infiltrating planes or channels. These equations specify error as a function of time in the flow hydrograph. The kinematic wave, diffusion wave and dynamic wave solutions were parameterized through a dimensionless parameter γ which is dependent on the initial conditions. This parameter reflects the effect of initial flow depth, channel bed slope, lateral inflow and channel roughness when the initial condition is non‐vanishing; it reflects the effect of bed slope, channel roughness, lateral inflow and infiltration when the initial condition is vanishing. The error equations were found to be the Riccati equation.