Introduction to Environmental Modeling

by William G. Gray, Genetha A. Gray

Overview

This textbook presents an understanding of how basic physical descriptions can be translated into mathematical analogues that provide an opportunity to investigate environmental processes. Examples come from a range of hydrologic, atmospheric, and geophysical problems. The emphasis is on simple examples and calculations that add to understanding. The book provides a sense for the meaning of mathematical expressions, a physical feel for their relations to processes, and confidence in working with mathematical solutions. The goal of this book, in essence, is to present the timeless basic physical and mathematical principles and philosophy of environmental modeling, often to students who need to be taught how to think in a different way than they would for more narrowly-defined engineering or physics problems. Minimum prerequisites for the student reader include a knowledge of calculus through differential equations, but the book provides the mathematical and physical tools needed as the occasion arises.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781107571693
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	12/28/2016
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	444
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.90(h) x 0.80(d)

Table of Contents

1. Philosophy and approach; 2. Thoughts on use of data; 3. Models as a framework for study of data; 4. Length and time scales; 5. Mechanisms of change; 6. Dimensional analysis; 7. Mathematical instruments of change; 8. Derivatives and scales; 9. Integral theorems and volume kinematics; 10. Mass conservation; 11. Species mass conservation; 12. Statement of conservation of momentum; 13. Conservation of total energy; 14. Mixed scale modeling; 15. Porous media and groundwater systems; 16. Advection-dispersion equation solution; 17. Stability revisited.

Editorial Reviews

'The approach by Gray and Gray is delightful - [this book] is strongly sequential, deeply thoughtful and thought-provoking, personally and profoundly reflective, and as significant as it is welcome.' Bryan Karney, University of Toronto

'This is a remarkably clear and refreshingly attractive development of foundational educational materials required for all students in environmental science and engineering. This textbook provides a thorough development of key principles that is extremely well organized and builds logically: will be greatly appreciated by student and educator alike.' Marc B. Parlange, University of British Columbia

'Written by passionate educators, this book fosters a critical approach to environmental modeling, introducing the principles underlying all environmental models. A book for upper level undergraduates or graduate students who wish to become thinking modelers and not just modeling doers. Also rewarding reading for experienced modelers who should pause, read this book, and reflect on what they are doing.' Philip Binning, Technical University of Denmark

'This beautifully produced and clear text provides a vital bridge between conventional physical science treatments of applied mathematics and the more creative approach necessary to model environmental systems.' Jon French, University College London

From the Publisher