Comparative Review of Longitudinal Dispersion Coefficient Equations in Rivers
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 147, Issue 9
Abstract
This paper presents analysis and estimation of the longitudinal dispersion coefficient, a key hydrologic parameter for transport of contaminants in rivers and streams. The longitudinal dispersion coefficient varies spatially in streams with changes in the hydrologic parameters, e.g., the cross-sectional width, depth, sinuosity, and velocity of flow. Many theoretical and empirical equations are reported in the literature. After a comprehensive review, 30 equations for prediction of the longitudinal dispersion coefficient were selected from published research. These equations were used in this analysis. Hydrologic data from 59 river reaches were used for estimation of the dispersion coefficient. The estimated values of the dispersion coefficient were compared statistically and graphically with the observed values. Results showed that sinuosity significantly impacts estimation of the dispersion coefficient. Computations that include sinuosity improve the performance of the dispersion equation. Observed and estimated values were compared, and the equations were ranked based on the accuracy of estimation. The nine top-ranked equations were used for field validation using the ICWater model. The Sahay equation provides the best results when used in the calculation of concentration in the advection dispersion equation.
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Data Availability Statement
All data generated or used during the study appear in the published article.
Acknowledgments
This study was funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency as part of the development of a waterborne transport model for the Department of Defense.
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Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 147 • Issue 9 • September 2021
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© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 6, 2021
Accepted: Apr 19, 2021
Published online: Jul 9, 2021
Published in print: Sep 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Dec 9, 2021
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