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701-1311-00L 3 Credits DS , MSC D-USYS
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Transport and mixing in natural waters

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Alfred Wüest, Dr. Olaf A. Cirpka
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:05:19

Abstract

This course discusses physical transport and mixing processes affecting the behaviour of dissolved and particulate compounds in natural waters. Emphasis is on turbulence in stratified waters (oceans, lakes) and advective-dispersive transport in rivers and groundwater. The interrelation to temporal and spatial distribution of constituents is provided.

Objective

- Understand different types of turbulent regimes and their advective and diffusive properties - Understand the essence of turbulence and its effect on reactive processes - Understand mechanisms and effects of dispersion - Interpret and predict temporal and spatial distributions of properties within different surface water bodies and groundwater.

Content

- Stratification, exchange processes, Navier-Stokes and KE equation - Reynolds decomposition, small-scale transport, TKE balance - Methods and applications, microstructure, constituent distributions - Surface boundary processes, gravity waves and wind-driven forcing - Convective turbulence and double diffusion - Bottom boundary processes and sediment interaction - Thermocline processes and internal waves - Horizontal and isopycnal processes - Solute dispersion in rivers and porous media - Taylor-Aris dispersion in rivers, pipes, and stratified aquifers - Hydrodynamic dispersion in porous media and random flow fields - Analytical solutions of the advection-dispersion equation - Inter-phase mass transfer coupled to transport - Applications and exercises for the different items

Resources

Lecture Notes

Detailed handouts for every chapter

Literature

Detailed handouts for every chapter A list of relevant books and papers will be provided

General Information

Language
German
Levels
DS , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Transport and mixing in natural waters
  • Tue 08:15-10:00 (CHN F 42)
  • Tue 10:15-11:00 (CHN E 42)
  • Tue 12:15-13:00 (CHN F 42)
2 h weekly

Offered In