Catchment Area Usually Watershed Area When Possible Recharge Is Considered Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ \text{Watershed Area} = \frac{\text{Possible Recharge} + \text{Gross Water Draft}}{\text{Water Level Fluctuation} \times \text{Specific Yield}} \]

Possible Recharge:

m³/s

Gross Water Draft:

m³/s

Water Level Fluctuation:

Specific Yield:

Watershed Area:

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1. What is the Watershed Area Calculation?

The Watershed Area calculation determines the isolated area with a well demarcated boundary line that drains rainwater to a single outlet. This calculation is essential for water resource management and hydrological studies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{Watershed Area} = \frac{\text{Possible Recharge} + \text{Gross Water Draft}}{\text{Water Level Fluctuation} \times \text{Specific Yield}} \]

Where:

Possible Recharge — Gross recharge minus natural recharge of the area (m³/s)
Gross Water Draft — Total volume of water extracted from a catchment area (m³/s)
Water Level Fluctuation — Irregular rising and falling of water during monsoon season (m)
Specific Yield — Volume of water that saturated rock or soil will yield due to gravity drainage

Explanation: This formula calculates the watershed area by considering the water balance components and the specific yield of the geological formation.

3. Importance of Watershed Area Calculation

Details: Accurate watershed area calculation is crucial for water resource planning, flood management, groundwater recharge estimation, and environmental conservation efforts.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units. Possible Recharge and Gross Water Draft in m³/s, Water Level Fluctuation in meters, and Specific Yield as a dimensionless value between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between watershed area and catchment area?
A: While often used interchangeably, watershed typically refers to the area that drains to a single outlet, while catchment area may refer to any area that collects water.

Q2: How is specific yield determined?
A: Specific yield is determined through laboratory tests on soil/rock samples or estimated from geological characteristics of the area.

Q3: What factors affect water level fluctuation?
A: Rainfall patterns, evaporation rates, groundwater extraction, and geological characteristics all influence water level fluctuations.

Q4: Why is this calculation important for water management?
A: It helps in quantifying available water resources, planning sustainable extraction, and managing water distribution systems.

Q5: Can this formula be used for all types of geological formations?
A: The formula works best for unconfined aquifers. For confined aquifers, different calculations may be needed due to different storage mechanisms.