Asymptotic theory for saturated-unsaturated flow in a layered and heterogeneous unconfined aquifer (Q1109647)

An asymptotic theory is developed for saturated-unsaturated flow in a layered and heterogeneous unconfined aquifer. It is found that, on a large time scale, the flow in both the saturated and unsaturated zones is governed by a single nonlinear parabolic equation. It is also found that the total head has an upper bound which is attained when the entire vertical section of the aquifer is saturated. An outline is given of how the horizontal and vertical specific discharges are obtained.