Module Identifier | GG30220 | ||
Module Title | MODELLING IN FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY | ||
Academic Year | 2000/2001 | ||
Co-ordinator | Dr Tom Coulthard | ||
Semester | Semester 1 | ||
Pre-Requisite | GG22510 | ||
Course delivery | Lecture | 22 Hours 11 x 2 hours | |
Practicals / Field Days | 12 Hours 6 x 2 hours | ||
Assessment | Exam | 2 Hours Written exam, 2 essays from a choice of 4. | 50% |
Course work | Web page construction. | 10% | |
Essay | 3500 word assessed essay. | 40% | |
Resit assessment | Resubmission of failed CA component. Resit failed examination. |
Module Outline (Lecture Themes)
The course covers the wide range of techniques and philosophies used to simulate the complex interactions within the fluvial system. Each methodology is reviewed systematically with discussion of the relative merits and disadvantages. Emphasis is placed upon the student to develop their own opinions regarding the suitability and effectiveness of these methods. Whilst exact techniques and formulae will be reviewed, the content of the course is not heavily mathematical, its main aims being to discuss theory, application and reasoning.
Modelling methodologies, eg. Process based, statistical, black box.
Hydraulic modelling 1. One and two dimensional flow modelling
Hydraulic modelling 2. Three dimensional flow modelling and limitations.
Sediment transport simulation
Long profile evolution
Meander models
Landscape evolution models
The cellular automaton
Non linear processes: Chaos and self organised criticality.
Neural networks and AI
Model validation
Synthesis: Future directions for fluvial modelling
Many items discussed in the 2nd year fluvial geomorphology course will be integrated and built upon including process landform association, equilibrium's and thresholds. Extra emphasis is placed upon retaining models within context and the importance of rigorous validation and calibration.
Module Aims
The aim of this module is to review in detail the number of fluvial modelling schemes available today and assess their suitability, accuracy and effectiveness over a range of spatial and temporal scales .
Objectives
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of fluvial models and their application to real systems.
2. Appreciate the complexity and uncertainty of modelling, and be fully aware of the limitations and difficulties.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Apply where appropriate multi dimensional flow models.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the limitations of different modelling approaches.
3. Evaluate and interpret a river profile model.
4. Apply landscape evolution models.
5. Use of Spreadsheets to apply simple numerical models to fluvial systems.
6. Communicate results ideas and concepts via the WWW.