Abstract
The numerical integration of Richards' equation for infiltration into homogeneous unsaturated soil is carried out by a moving finite element (MFE) method. Accurate solution of this one‐dimensional nonlinear partial differential equation by standard finite difference (FD) or finite element (FE) methods can be obtained by using a fine discretization on space and time. This can lead to large computer times. With the MFE method, grid points are moved during computation along the wetting front, so that accuracy can be maintained by using a small number of nodes for simulating cases several meters in depth. For these cases the MFE method is faster than FD and FE methods. The numerical MFE model is verified through comparison with the quasi‐analytical solution by Philip (1957). Moreover, we compare, for some other test problems, the computational efficiency of this method with that of two efficient pressure head‐based FD and FE fixed grid formulations.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
