WRRCTR No. 3 Dynamic and Static Studies of Seawater Intrusion

Abstract

A theoretical equation was adapted and modified for a water-table aquifer to relate freshwater flow to the sea, geometry of the fresh water-sea water interface, and aquifer characteristics under dynamic equilibrium. Verification was obtained in laboratory experiments conducted in a hydraulic sand model. Other laboratory experiments revealed special flow patterns in the transitional zone of the freshwater-seawater interface. The extent and the vertical density gradient of the brackish water in the transitional zone were examined for their effects on modifying the conventional Ghyben-Herzberg Patio. Groundwater data collected from a deep well on Oahu, Hawaii was discussed as an illustration.