HWM-32806 Hydrological Processes in Catchments

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

SEG-20306 Water Quantity and Quality; HWM-20806 Hydrogeology; MAT-23803 Analysis and Modeling or MAT-23306 Multivariate Mathematics Applied.

Continuation courses:

SEG-30806 Hydrological Modeling: Theory and Practice; HWM-31806 Technical Concepts in Water Engineering.

Contents:

This course on hydrological processes deals with advanced topics in hydrological processes in catchments at various scales, such as processes and estimation methods for stream flow generation and groundwater (floods and drought propagation), deterministic and stochastic modelling approaches. The deterministic part deals with precipitation-runoff relationships using physical-mathematical and conceptual models (physicaly based approaches and reservoir models); examples of flood forecasting and hydrological drought analysis techniques; determination of flow generating processes (quick flow, base flow, influence of groundwater system properties on discharge); determination of the effects of climate change on streamflow generation and drought propagation. The stochastic part deals with black box models (in particular regression models).
The course includes a field trip to Iceland. Effects of hydrological processes will be shown for different catchment conditions. Impacts of floods and drought, will be shown/discussed.

Learning outcomes:

After the course students will be able to:
- analyse hydrological systems (processes and medium) of catchments in various climatological and hydrogeological settings;
- identify and understand precipitation-runoff relationships at various temporal and spatial scales;
- conceptualize and develop models of stochastic and deterministic nature;
- calibrate and apply several conceptual models using historical data from a number of European catchments, incl. a detailed interpretation of model simulation results and comparison of models used;
- apply these models in solving catchment management issues, incl. prediction of hydrological extremes and assessing effects of global change;
- carry out field observations and to understand hydro(geo)logically complex catchments.

Activities:

Attending lectures, studying course material and literature, computer assignments and exercises; active participation in the field trip to abroad.

Examination:

Written exam on all course elements, incl. a multiple-choice exam on the field trip; evaluation of assignments.

Literature:

Lecture notes, Practical Manual and Excursion Guide.