Roles of Percolation Theory In Solutions of Critical Zone Hydrology And
The Water Cycle
- Allen Hunt
Allen Hunt
Wright State University
Corresponding Author:allen.hunt@wright.edu
Author ProfileAbstract
Percolation theory addresses the spatial and temporal scaling properties
of disordered networks, both for topological and transport-related
processes. The critical zone is, effectively, a random network. The
ability to predict the dimensions of the critical zone as a function of
time, as well as its carbon storage properties, are both critical to the
understanding of its dynamics. In addition, combining the scaling
relationships with the principal that represented ecosystems will tend
to optimize net primary productivity, generates a basic understanding of
the water cycle. When the future of hydrology is discussed, these facts
should be of central importance. Furthermore, although the definition of
complex systems is not necessarily generally agreed on, it is usually
understood that phase transitions, such as described by percolation
theory, are emergent phenomena within the range of topics encompassed.
Thus, this topic is of fundamental relevance to the present conference.