Aquifer flow terminology: which statement is incorrect regarding permeability, transmissibility, Darcy’s law, and terminology origin?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: None of these statements is incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Clear understanding of aquifer parameters underpins groundwater hydraulics, well design, and pumping-test interpretation. This item checks precise definitions and historical terminology in hydrogeology.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Laminar flow conditions typical of many porous aquifers.
  • Standard hydrogeologic definitions are used.
  • Vertical strip definition is a classical way to visualize transmissibility.


Concept / Approach:
Permeability (hydraulic conductivity, K): discharge per unit area per unit hydraulic gradient (dimensions L/T).Transmissibility (often transmissivity, T): K * b, where b is aquifer saturated thickness; dimensions L^2/T; equivalently, discharge per unit width across the full saturated thickness under unit gradient.Darcy’s law governs laminar flow in porous media: q = −K (dh/dl) A.Terminology: Meinzer is historically credited with introducing 'transmissibility/transmissivity' in U.S. hydrogeology.
Given these, all listed statements are correct; hence the only correct choice for “incorrect statement” is 'None of these statements is incorrect'.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Check each definition against standard texts.2) Confirm T = Kb and its interpretation as unit-width discharge under unit gradient.3) Confirm Darcy’s law applicability.4) Recognize Meinzer’s terminology contribution.5) Conclude none are incorrect.


Verification / Alternative check:
Groundwater hydraulics references (e.g., pumping-test theory) align with these definitions and attributions.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Each individual statement (a)–(d) is correct; picking any would incorrectly label a true statement as false.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing permeability (K) with intrinsic permeability (k) and fluid-property effects.
  • Mixing units of T (L^2/T) and K (L/T).
  • Overextending Darcy’s law into turbulent regimes (e.g., coarse gravels).


Final Answer:
None of these statements is incorrect

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