Conceptualization and characterization of a ground-water system is fundamental to any qualitative or quantitative analysis. This conceptualization begins with simple abstractions in the investigator''s mind, emphasizing the major components of the studied system, that can be rendered in qualitative terms or simple illustrations. The extent of further development of the representation of the system depends on the character of the ground-water problem and the project objective. The abstract concept may suffice, or it may be further defined and quantified through use of analytical models of increasing complexity, and, in some cases, numerical models may be employed. If numerical models are used, the level of detail and sophistication of features represented in the model is likely to increase as the project develops. Evolution of conceptualization of a ground-water flow system should be terminated when the results of the related analyses are sufficient for the problem being addressed.
This guide may be used in the following:
Evaluating natural variations in ground-water flow systems.
Evaluating anthropogenic stresses on ground-water flow systems, such as pumping for water supply, irrigation, induced infiltration, or well injection.
Evaluating presence and velocity of ground-water contaminants.
Designing and selecting mathematical models to simulate ground-water systems; and completing model schematization and attribution based on the problem defined, characterized ground-water flow system, and model(s) selected.
Designing ground-water remediation systems.
This guide is a flexible description of specific techniques and investigation requirements; methods defined by other ASTM Standards or non-ASTM techniques may be appropriate in some circumstances and, after due consideration, some of the techniques herein may be omitted, altered, or enhanced.
A comprehensive list of items to be considered conceptualization and characterization are included in the main headings (Sections 6 through 13) and first subheadings (for example, 7.1 and 8.1).
In karst and fractured rock hydrogeologic settings, this guide should be used in conjunction with Guide D 5717.
The methods and amount of effort required for conceptualization, characterization, and quantification of ground-water systems for modeling or other applications will vary with site conditions, objectives of investigation, and investigator experience. This guide does not replace proper academic training and experience in hydrogeologic principles, or in ground-water system analysis and quantification. This guide does not set mandatory guidelines and does not constitute a list of necessary steps or procedures for all investigations.
This guide may be used for project planning and data collection, but does not provide specific aspects for field characterization techniques. Refer to Table X1.1 in Guide D 5730, Practice D 5254, and Refs (2, 3, 4, and 5) for further guidance regarding field characterization techniques.
This guide may be used to generate the necessary information as part of the process for model selection, design, and as input to model schematization, including the simplification of hydrologic systems and the representation of hydrogeologic parameters in models. Refer to Ref (6) for further guidance.
1.1 This guide covers an integrated, stepwise method for the qualitative conceptualization and quantitative characterization of ground-water flow systems, including the unsaturated zone, for natural or human-induced behavior or changes.
1.2 This guide may be used at any scale of investigation, including site-specific, subregional, and regional applications.
1.3 This guide describes an iterative process for developing multiple working hypotheses for characte......
