Finite Difference vs. Finite Element — Numerical Methods
Finite Difference vs. Finite Element — Numerical Methods
Presented on Monday, April 29, 2013
Numerical methods to predict groundwater flow and contaminant fate and transport have been available to the industry since the initial introduction of MODFLOW by the USGS in 1988. Since that time both finite difference and finite element methods have grown in availability, with both 2-D and 3-D capability. Communicating model output to both regulatory agencies as well as the lay stakeholder is essential to model acceptance, but identifying model vulnerability and potential for error is often overlooked. This session will provide a platform for those who use models and other numerical tools to showcase their work and report on lessons learned.
Moderator:
Kristine Uhlman, RG
Consulting Hydrogeologist, Tucson, AZ
Consulting Hydrogeologist, Tucson, AZ
With a degree in Hydrology from the University of Arizona (1974) and a Masters in Civil Engineering from the Ohio State (1975) Ms. Uhlman started her career with the United States Geological Survey and then worked with various consulting firms throughout the United States and internationally. In 2003 she accepted a faculty appointment with the University of Arizona and then later joined Texas A&M University in developing their domestic well education program. Now an independent consultant, Ms. Uhlman is a frequent speaker to the public, local and state government on the tools and data necessary to improve groundwater resource management.