Exact solutions for one-dimensional transport with asymptotic scale-dependent dispersion (Q5961830)

A general analytical solution is developed for one-dimensional solute transport in heterogeneous porous media with scale-dependent dispersion. The solution assumes that the dispersivity, \(\alpha\), increases linearly with distance \(x\), that is, \(\alpha(x) =ax\), until some distance \(x_0\), after which \(\alpha\) reaches an asymptotic value, \(\alpha_L =ax_0\). The parameters \(a\) and \(x_0\) characterize the nature of the scale-dependent dispersion process. The general solution contains as special cases the solutions of the classical convection-dispersion equation assuming a constant dispersivity, and the solution by Yates assuming a linearly increasing dispersivity with distance. A simplified solution is also derived for cases where diffusion can be neglected. In addition, a solution for steady-state transport is presented.