Predicting diffusion in aquifers beneath saline ponds

SummaryThis paper examines the contribution of diffusion to salt contamination of groundwater from leaky saline ponds. A hybrid analytical solution for diffusion from a region of constant concentration is developed using the series solutions method. This is used to predict when and where diffusion becomes the dominant transport process over advection (using existing knowledge of the advection process). A simple method is established to find when contamination will occur at any point in the aquifer, given knowledge of its physical parameters.

► Hybrid analytical model of diffusion from a region of constant concentration. ► Prediction of when diffusion becomes the dominant transport process over advection. ► Simplified model to predict total advection and diffusion beneath saline ponds.