Modeling of Hydrodynamic Dispersion in the Sidi Kirayr Locality’s Coastal Unconfined Aquifer West of Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

The finite difference method was used in this study to solve the two-dimensional hydrodynamic dispersion equation for a typical coastal unconfined aquifer. A mathematical model is prepared to solve this dispersion problem, which is then modeled and analyzed over time. The salinity profiles for the aquifer transition zone in the Sidi Kirayr locality are determined using the finite difference method. The computed salinity profiles are compared to those obtained from an actual well drilled in the area and used to determine electric conductivity. Profile correlation reveals a roughly parallel trend along the tested depth interval. Additionally, these results correlate well with the chemical analysis of water from the same well. The current work promotes the application of the solution methodology in comparable coastal regions in the absence of dispersion measures for the analyzed aquifer. This innovative approach can be used to forecast groundwater quality in comparable coastal regions. It can also help in selecting the ideal sites for man-made wells that pump groundwater.