Conceptual Model

A conceptual model is the basis for the numerical groundwater flow model and is derived mostly from the hydrogeologic setting and hydrogeologic units. A conceptual model is the first step in developing a more quantitative geologic, water-quality, groundwater flow, or water management model. A conceptual model defines the setting, the general structure, the primary processes, and a mass balance for the system being evaluated. The value in preparing a conceptual model is that it facilitates and expedites developing a credible quantitative model. Having a well-thought-out conceptual model helps prevent ending up with a quantitative model that works, might even appear credible, but is wrong in some very basic way. Probably the primary, often fatal criticism of a quantitative model is that it conflicts with a basic conceptual model of the system.