Introduction to Physical Hydrology

Introduction to Physical Hydrology

Water dominates our lives: we live on a planet with much water and our lives depend on it in many ways. Despite the seeming abundance of water on the planet - with over 70% being salt water - human activity and prevailing climate conditions are placing more pressure on our supply of water than ever before, however. With this pressure comes a need to understand the physical principles of hydrology - the study of the occurrence, movement, and physical properties of<br />non-oceanic water on and below the earth's surface - an understanding that can then be applied to water management and related innovations.<br /><br />Introduction to Physical Hydrology provides a solid grounding in the principles of the subject. Exploring the principal rules that govern the flow of water on the land, it considers the four major types of water: atmospheric, ground, soil, and surface. It gives insights into the major hydrological processes, and shows how the principles of physical hydrology inform our understanding of climate and global hydrology - the large-scale study of hydrology with which we need to grapple to<br />fully understand the impact of the climate on water supply.<br /><br />The study of physical properties is done most effectively through mathematical representations of concepts and processes. Introduction to Physical Hydrology includes a carefully-developed and class-tested learning framework: an extensive range of examples and exercises, and further maths support in the form of a series of Maths Toolboxes help the reader engage with and understand the maths required to master the subject.<br /><br />With hydrology now being approached from environmental and social perspectives, in addition to the more traditional physical geography and civil engineering perspectives, there has never been a more important time to develop a sound understanding of the subject. Introduction to Physical Hydrology is the perfect course companion while you develop this understanding.<br /><br />Online Resource Centre<br />The Online Resource Centre to accompany Introduction to Physical Hydrology features:<br /><br />For registered adopters of the book:<br />· Figures from the book, available to download<br /><br />For students:<br />· A series of interactive spreadsheets related to topics introduced in the book<br />· A selection of multiple-choice questions to help check your understanding of the key concepts covered.<br />· A library of web links · Groundwater hydraulics test - three exercises to test your knowledge of section 3.15