Geohydrology and Groundwater Flow Modeling: A Review of Techniques and Applications

Abstract

Geohydrology, also known as hydrogeology, plays a crucial role in understanding groundwater movement, storage, and interaction with surface water systems. Groundwater is a vital resource for drinking water supply, agriculture, industry, and ecosystem sustainability, making its study essential for effective water management and environmental protection. Groundwater flow modeling has emerged as an essential tool for assessing aquifer dynamics, predicting the impacts of human activities, and developing sustainable water resource management strategies. These models help in simulating groundwater movement under various geological and hydrological conditions, enabling researchers and policymakers to make informed decisions regarding water extraction, contamination prevention, and climate change adaptation.

This review explores the fundamental concepts of geohydrology, including aquifer characterization, groundwater flow principles, and the governing equations that describe subsurface water movement. It also examines the evolution of groundwater flow models, from analytical solutions to advanced numerical techniques such as finite difference and finite element methods. Various modeling approaches, including conceptual, empirical, and physics-based models, are discussed, along with their strengths and limitations in simulating groundwater flow and contaminant transport.

Furthermore, the review highlights key applications of groundwater modeling in aquifer management, groundwater recharge estimation, pollution control, and water quality assessment. It also addresses the role of emerging technologies, such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of groundwater simulations. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of climate change on groundwater resources, exploring how models can aid in predicting future scenarios and developing mitigation strategies.

Despite significant advancements in groundwater modeling, several challenges remain, including data limitations, model uncertainties, computational complexities, and the need for interdisciplinary integration. The review concludes with a discussion on future research directions, emphasizing the importance of improving model reliability, incorporating real-time monitoring data, and developing more comprehensive approaches to address groundwater sustainability challenges in a rapidly changing world.