Abstract
Interactions between groundwater and surface water (GW-SW interactions) play a crucial role in the hydrological cycle; thus, the quantification of GW-SW interactions is essential. In this study, a cumulative exchange fluxes method based on mass balance theory is proposed for a stream-aquifer system. This method determines the curve of cumulative fluxes through the water balance term, which can characterize GW-SW interactions, determine the amount of exchange fluxes, and reveal the dynamic process of interactions. This method is used in a reach of the Taizi River Basin, and the GW-SW interactions observed in 2016 are categorized into seven stages and four types (natural controlled, reservoir and irrigation controlled, irrigation controlled, and irrigation hysteresis type). The natural recharge in the study reach is approximately 3.03 × 105 m3·day−1, and the increase caused by irrigation is 7.8–13.87 × 105 m3·day−1. After the irrigation stops, the impact can be sustained for 48 d with an increase of 3.03 × 105 m3·day−1. The most influential factor of the results is the runoff coefficient. The method is applicable to the stream in the plains with upstream and downstream flow monitoring data and can be used to analyze complex GW-SW interactions under the conditions of reservoir storage and agricultural irrigation. The analysis results will provide guidance for the other study of GW-SW interactions in this reach.
Highlights
When surface water and groundwater act as separate elements in the hydrological cycle, they play significant roles in hydrological and water resource processes
With the constant emergence of regional water resource shortages and pollution problems arising from the expansion of human horizons, the study of groundwater–surface water (GW-SW) interactions has gradually gained attention [1,2]
Relevant research of GW-SW interactions plays an important role in the accurate assessment, integrated management, and ecological environmental protection of water resources [2,6,7]
Summary
When surface water and groundwater act as separate elements in the hydrological cycle, they play significant roles in hydrological and water resource processes. With the constant emergence of regional water resource shortages and pollution problems arising from the expansion of human horizons, the study of groundwater–surface water (GW-SW) interactions has gradually gained attention [1,2]. Almost all surface water in nature has a relationship with groundwater, which directly affects the quantity and quality of the water [3,4,5]. Relevant research of GW-SW interactions plays an important role in the accurate assessment, integrated management, and ecological environmental protection of water resources [2,6,7].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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 call
