95934 - Modeling and Management of Natural Hydraulic Systems

Learning outcomes

After passing the final exam, the student gains a deep understanding of the dynamics of water flow in natural hydraulic systems. Moreover, the student is able to manage data and apply risk assessment tools in order to predict the environmental status and the vulnerability of a water body to natural and anthropic pressures.

Course contents

- LEARNING MODULE 1

• Status assessment of a groundwater body. Analysis of scientific papers.

• Monitoring methods and assessment of water availability. 

• Risk analysis.

• Flow in natural domains.

• Contamination processes.

- LEARNING MODULE 2

• Dimensionless numbers and laws of similarity for model tests in hydraulics.

• Hydraulic measurements.

Readings/Bibliography

Teaching material is provided on the platform "Virtuale". This material covers the whole content of the course and it is updated every year.

In addition, students may refer to:

Fetter C.W., Applied Hydrogeology, Fourth Edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, 2001.

Other reading material will be provided during the course.

Teaching methods

Class hours consist of regular lectures. Case studies are examined during the lectures and exercises are proposed to students. Laboratory hours, held at the Hydraulic Engineering Lab, aim at illustrating advanced measurement tools employed in hydraulic engineering.

Assessment methods

Achievements will be assessed by means of a final exam. This is based on an analytical assessment of the expected learning outcomes described above. To properly assess such achievement, a written examination is administered. This consists of 3 questions about theoretical aspects and practical applications developed and discussed during the class. Some concepts will be verified with homework that will contribute to 50% of the evaluation. Key concepts of the class regard modeling strategies to interpret flow and transport processes in natural systems.
Higher grades will be awarded to students who demonstrate an organic understanding of the subject, a high ability for a critical application, and a clear and concise presentation of the contents. To obtain a passing grade, students are required to at least demonstrate a knowledge of the key concepts of the subject, some ability for a critical application, and a comprehensible use of technical language. A failing grade will be awarded if the student shows knowledge gaps in key concepts of the subject, inappropriate use of language, and/or logic failures in the analysis of the subject.

Teaching tools

PC, projector.

Office hours

See the website of Valentina Ciriello

See the website of Vittorio Di Federico