Importance of numerical modeling

In the actual society, the environmental aspects are a concern when planning projects related to water resources. In this context, numerical models are useful tools to represent the superficial water and groundwater cycle and determine the contamination effects.

Over the last 20 years, computers have evolved, becoming a convenient tool used to solve engineering problems. Many numerical algorithms were invented in the 70s. During those years, the computers were too slow to be used in many practical problems. However, in the past few years, the new fast, cheap and personal computers have changed this.

Many of the current models have sophisticated GUI and show good quality graphics. The perception of people can make you think that a computer can solve all problems with a minimum user knowledge. Nonetheless, for a high quality numerical representation, it is necessary that the user has experience and criteria in the use of numerical methods, knows their limitations and understands the physical processes to model. Knowledge has to be used to include coherent input data in the numerical models and analyze its results.

Hatarilabs likes to research in numerical modeling related to water resources. Nowadays, there are various areas that need to be developed and still need more research. These information will be useful to evaluate the impact of projects on water resources and make regulations focused on the sustain of water resources.