Introduction to physical hydrology

Water dominates our lives: we live on a planet with much water and our lives depend on it in many ways.

Despite the seeming abundance of water on the planet - with over 70% being salt water - human activity and prevailing climate conditions are placing more pressure on our supply of water than ever before, however.

With this pressure comes a need to understand the physical principles of hydrology - the study of the occurrence, movement, and physical properties of non-oceanic water on and below the earth's surface - an understanding that can then be applied to water management and related innovations.

Introduction to Physical Hydrology provides a solid grounding in the principles of the subject.

Exploring the principal rules that govern the flow of water on the land, it considers the four major types of water: atmospheric, ground, soil, and surface.

It gives insights into the major hydrological processes, and shows how the principles of physical hydrology inform our understanding of climate and global hydrology - the large-scale study of hydrology with which we need to grapple to fully understand the impact of the climate on water supply. The study of physical properties is done most effectively through mathematical representations of concepts and processes.

Introduction to Physical Hydrology includes a carefully-developed and class-tested learning framework: an extensive range of examples and exercises, and further maths support in the form of a series of Maths Toolboxes help the reader engage with and understand the maths required to master the subject. With hydrology now being approached from environmental and social perspectives, in addition to the more traditional physical geography and civil engineering perspectives, there has never been a more important time to develop a sound understanding of the subject.

Introduction to Physical Hydrology is the perfect course companion while you develop this understanding.

Online Resource CentreThe Online Resource Centre to accompany Introduction to Physical Hydrology features:For registered adopters of the book:· Figures from the book, available to downloadFor students:· A series of interactive spreadsheets related to topics introduced in the book· A selection of multiple-choice questions to help check your understanding of the key concepts covered. · A library of web links · Groundwater hydraulics test - three exercises to test your knowledge of section 3.15