Elements of Physical Hydrology

By George M. Hornberger / Jeffrey P. Raffensperger & Keith N. Eshleman, ISBN 0-8018-5857-7
In this intoductory level text, the authors begin from the premise thatthe complexities of modern hydrology can be mastered by understandingbasic physical principles of fluid movement. Focusing first on analysisat the scale of a single watershed, they then introduce the mechanicsof fluids in closed conduits and open channels. They reevaluate catchmentprocesses in light of fluid mechanics, open channel hydraulics, and groundwaterflow. In a concluding chapter, they stress the importance of understandingwater movement in the environment by exploring the relationship of hydrologyto such disciplines as atmospheric science, ecology, and geology.