Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
D6033-16 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📘 Purpose and Scope of D6033-16
This guide presents a systematic approach to the classification and description of computer codes used in groundwater modeling. Due to the complex nature of fluid flow and biotic and chemical transport in the subsurface, many different types of groundwater modeling codes exist, each having specific capabilities and limitations. Determining the most appropriate code for a particular application requires a thorough analysis of the problem at hand and the required and available resources, as well as a detailed description of the functionality of potentially applicable codes.
Typically, groundwater modeling codes are non-parameterized mathematical descriptions of the causal relationships among selected components of the aqueous subsurface and the chemical and biological processes taking place in these systems. Many of these codes focus on the presence and movement of water, dissolved chemical species and biota, either under fully or partially saturated conditions, or a combination of these conditions. Other codes handle the joint movement of water and other fluids, either as a gas or a nonaqueous phase liquid, or both, and the complex phase transfers that might take place between them.
📊 Classification and Functionality Analysis
The classification protocol is based on an analysis of the major function groups present in groundwater modeling codes. Additional code functions and features may be identified in determining the functionality of a code. A description of a code’s functionality contains the details necessary to understand the capabilities and potential use of a groundwater modeling code. Tables are provided with explanations and examples of functions and function groups for selected types of codes.
| 🟦 Function Group | 📐 Description | 🎯 Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fluid Flow | Models water movement under saturated or unsaturated conditions | Groundwater flow simulation |
| Chemical Transport | Simulates dissolved chemical species and biological processes | Contaminant transport modeling |
| Multiphase Flow | Handles joint movement of water and other fluids like gas or NAPL | NAPL migration analysis |
| System Interaction | Interactions between groundwater and other hydrologic or environmental components | Surface water-groundwater exchange |
💡 Tip: Consistent use of the descriptions provided in the classification protocol forms the basis for efficient code selection.
⚙️ Application and Code Selection
This guide is one of a series of guides on groundwater modeling codes and their applications, such as Guides D5447, D5490, D5609, D5610, D5611, and D5718. Full adherence to this guide may not be feasible for research developments resulting in new types of codes. In those cases, code documentation should contain a section with a full description of the code’s functions, features, and capabilities.
| 📏 Guide Designation | ⚡ Description |
|---|---|
| D5447 | Guide for Application of a Groundwater Flow Model |
| D5490 | Guide for Comparing Groundwater Flow Model Simulations |
| D5609 | Guide for Defining Boundary Conditions |
| D5610 | Guide for Defining Initial Conditions |
| D5611 | Guide for Conducting Sensitivity Analysis |
| D5718 | Guide for Documenting a Groundwater Flow Model |
⚠️ Note: This guide offers an organized collection of information and does not recommend a specific course of action. It cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the purpose of the D6033-16 guide?
The guide provides a systematic approach to classifying and describing computer codes used in groundwater modeling, facilitating code selection based on functionality.
💡 How is the classification protocol developed?
The protocol is based on an analysis of major function groups present in groundwater modeling codes, with tables providing explanations and examples.
⚡ What types of codes are covered by this guide?
Codes covering fluid flow, chemical and biological transport, multiphase flow, and interactions with other hydrologic components are covered.
📌 Is this guide applicable to all groundwater modeling codes?
Full adherence may not be feasible for emerging codes; in such cases, documentation should include a full description of functions and capabilities.