Civil & Environmental Engr: Principles of Hydrology

Understanding and applying theory of precipitation, run-off, infiltration, and ground water; precipitation and run-off data; application of data for use in development of water resources; review and synthesis of relevant scientific literature. Credit not awarded for both CEE 5600 and CEE 4600. Prerequisites: Content knowledge of hydraulics/fluid mechanics assumed.

Graduate standing or instructor permission; Content knowledge of hydraulics/fluid mechanics (e.g. CEE 3600 or CEE 3615) assumed; Co-located with 4600 A; Total combined enrollment: 45; Tech Elective (CE and EnvE) Open to degree and PACE students

The hydrologic cycle and relevant atmospheric processes; water and energy balance; radiation; precipitation formation; evaporation; vegetation transpiration; infiltration, storm runoff, and flood processes. Routing of runoff and flood waters. Groundwater flow and the hydraulics of wells. Numerical simulation of subsurface flow and pollution transport. Risk analysis and probabilistic modeling, and basics of extreme-value theory. Data analysis and design in water resource engineering.

This course combines a lecture format with some discussion. There will be two in-class mid-term exams, and a final exam. Except when there is a mid-term exam, a weekly problem set will be assigned that will require about 4-8 hours of time outside of class per week. The course does not require a textbook. In addition to working weekly problems, students are expected to submit an interpretive essay on each weekly assignment topic that cites a minimum of three references from the primary literature.

Expected grading: 2 exams: 30% each Homework: 40%