The use of a high-speed digital computer in the study of the hydrodynamics of geologic basins

In order to predict the migration of hydrocarbons, and also in the estimation of water supply and water conservation requirements, it is important to be able to evaluate quantitatively the magnitude and direction of steady-state flows in aquifer systems and geologic basins. In many areas, sufficient information is available on topography, water tables, structure, stratigraphy, and permeabilities to make numerical solution possible on a digital computer. The equations governing steady-state flow are discussed, and the relevant aspects of the numerical analysis necessary for a proper solution are indicated. Results are given of the use of an experimental program applied to a three-dimensional model. A special algorithm for estimating the successive overrelaxation factor used in the numerical procedure is discussed.

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