Aquifer Loss Coefficient Calculator

Aquifer Loss Coefficient Formula:

\[ B = \frac{\ln\left(\frac{R}{r'}\right)}{2\pi k b_w} \]

Radius of Influence (R):

Radius of Well (r'):

Coefficient of Permeability (k):

m/s

Aquifer Thickness (b_w):

Aquifer Loss Coefficient (B):

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1. What is Aquifer Loss Coefficient?

The Aquifer Loss Coefficient (B) is a constant for a given flow rate that represents the hydraulic resistance of an aquifer. It quantifies the head loss per unit discharge rate due to the aquifer's properties and geometry.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the aquifer loss coefficient formula:

\[ B = \frac{\ln\left(\frac{R}{r'}\right)}{2\pi k b_w} \]

Where:

\( B \) — Aquifer Loss Coefficient (s/m²)
\( R \) — Radius of Influence (m)
\( r' \) — Radius of Well (m)
\( k \) — Coefficient of Permeability (m/s)
\( b_w \) — Aquifer Thickness (m)
\( \pi \) — Mathematical constant pi (≈3.14159)
\( \ln \) — Natural logarithm (base e)

Explanation: The formula calculates the aquifer loss coefficient based on the geometric and hydraulic properties of the aquifer-well system.

3. Importance of Aquifer Loss Coefficient

Details: The aquifer loss coefficient is crucial for analyzing well performance, designing pumping tests, and predicting drawdown in aquifer systems. It helps in understanding the efficiency of water extraction from wells.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units (meters for lengths, m/s for permeability). Ensure all values are positive and physically reasonable for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the physical significance of the ratio R/r'?
A: The ratio R/r' represents the geometric configuration of the well within the aquifer and affects the flow convergence towards the well.

Q2: How does aquifer thickness affect the loss coefficient?
A: Thicker aquifers generally result in smaller loss coefficients as there's more cross-sectional area for flow, reducing hydraulic resistance.

Q3: What is the typical range of values for aquifer loss coefficient?
A: Values vary widely depending on aquifer properties, but typically range from 10⁻⁶ to 10⁻² s/m² for different aquifer types.

Q4: How does permeability affect the aquifer loss coefficient?
A: Higher permeability results in lower loss coefficients as water can move more easily through the aquifer material.

Q5: When is this calculation most applicable?
A: This calculation is most applicable for confined aquifers with radial flow to a fully penetrating well under steady-state conditions.