Moench-Prickett Solution for Nonleaky Confined Aquifers Undergoing Unconfined Conversion
Description
A mathematical solution by Moench and Prickett (1972) is useful for determining the hydraulic properties (transmissivity, confined storativity and specific yield) of confined aquifers undergoing conversion to unconfined conditions. In the confined region beyond a radial distance R from the control well, flow is described by transmissivity and storativity; upon conversion, flow in the unconfined region is controlled by transmissivity and specific yield. Analysis involves matching the Moench and Prickett solution to drawdown data collected during a pumping test.
AQTESOLV provides visual and automatic methods for matching the Moench and Prickett solution to pumping test data. This easy-to-use and intuitive software promotes rapid and accurate determination of aquifer properties.
Assumptions
The following assumptions apply to the use of the Moench and Prickett pumping test solution:
- aquifer has infinite areal extent
- aquifer is homogeneous, isotropic and of uniform thickness
- control well is fully penetrating
- flow to control well is horizontal
- pumping rate is constant
- aquifer is confined with conversion to unconfined conditions
- flow is unsteady
- water is released instantaneously from storage with decline of hydraulic head
- diameter of control well is very small so that storage in the well can be neglected
Solution Options
AQTESOLV provides the following options for the Moench and Prickett pumping test solution:
- multiple observation wells
References
Moench, A.F. and T.A. Prickett, 1972. Radial flow in an infinite aquifer undergoing conversion from artesian to water-table conditions, Water Resources Research, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 494-499.
See also: solution methods, pumping tests