Marilyn P. Anderson V. A. Kelson R. J. Hunt 1998 <div class="abstract-group "><div class="article-section__content en main"><p>This paper demonstrates that analytic element models have potential as powerful screening tools that can facilitate or improve calibration of more complicated finite-difference and finite-element models. We demonstrate how a two-dimensional analytic element model was used to identify errors in a complex three-dimensional finite-difference model caused by incorrect specification of boundary conditions. An improved finite-difference model was developed using boundary conditions developed from a far-field analytic element model. Calibration of a revised finite-difference model was achieved using fewer zones of hydraulic conductivity and lake bed conductance than the original finite-difference model. Calibration statistics were also improved in that simulated base-flows were much closer to measured values. The improved calibration is due mainly to improved specification of the boundary conditions made possible by first solving the far-field problem with an analytic element model.</p></div></div> application/pdf 10.1111/j.1745-6584.1998.tb02108.x en National Groundwater Association Improving a complex finite-difference ground water flow model through the use of an analytic element screening model article