Two-Dimensional Mathematical Water Quality Model

A large-scale computer model of water quality in Westernport Bay, Australia, is described. Comparison is made between model predictions and field measurements. The model consists of four submodels, i.e., the Topographic Model, Hydrodynamic Model, Pollutant Transport Model, and the Chemical Kinetics and Interaction Model. The following physical variables are provided as output at grid-points throughout the bay-interpolated depths, tide heights, and velocity components. The movement of nonreacting tracer particles is computed. Concentrations of the following chemicals and other materials, averaged over depth, are determined: (l)Dissolved oxygen deficit; (2) organic carbon, (3) BOD; (4) nitrogen as organic matter; (5) nitrate and ammonia; (6) coliforms; (7) conservative pollutants; and (8) suspended solids. Bulk water temperature is computed also. Computational techniques and experiences with the model are described and proposals for future development are examined.