Modeling Rain Hitting Surface

In summary, the conversation discusses modeling the flow of rain off a square surface, specifically a slab of concrete. The rain is falling at a constant rate and the ground surrounding the concrete has unlimited capacity for rain. The equation for the rate of change of water on the pavement is "dP/dt = c-g" and for the ground is "dG/dt = p". The constants "c" and "g" represent the constant rate of rainfall and flow of water from the pavement onto the ground, respectively. The person is unsure if their differential equations are correct and asks for assistance. Upon further consideration, they realize that "g" must equal "p" and updates their equations accordingly.
  • #1
analysis001
21
0
I would like to model rain hitting a surface and then running off of the surface. The surface would be a square, such as a slab of concrete, and the concrete would not be at any angle, so the rain would run off of all sides equally. This is a starting point for a small research project I am doing, and I'm not sure if my differential equations are right. Any help would be great.

Further information: The rain is falling at a constant rate. The ground surrounding the concrete has an unlimited capacity for rain. I am assuming that the concrete is initially fully saturated, so none of the rain will be absorbed into the concrete. I am also assuming that the rain is only falling on the concrete, not the surrounding ground.

[itex]\frac{dP}{dt}[/itex]=c-g

[itex]\frac{dG}{dt}[/itex]=p

[itex]\frac{dP}{dt}[/itex] is the rate of change of water on the pavement.

[itex]\frac{dG}{dt}[/itex] is the rate of change of water on the ground

c is the constant rate of rainfall.
g is the constant flow of water from the pavement onto the ground.
p is the rate at which water is flowing onto the ground.

Now that I think about it, g must equal p. So my new differential equations would be:

[itex]\frac{dP}{dt}[/itex]=c-g

[itex]\frac{dG}{dt}[/itex]=g

Does this look right? Thanks
 
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  • #2
Either you are using "P" and "p" and "G" and "g" interchangeably or you have not defined "P" and "G". Either is bad.
 

1. What is the purpose of modeling rain hitting a surface?

The purpose of modeling rain hitting a surface is to understand the physical processes and factors that influence how raindrops behave when they hit different types of surfaces. This information can be used to improve weather forecasting, predict erosion and flooding, and design more effective rainwater management systems.

2. How is rain hitting a surface modeled?

Rain hitting a surface is typically modeled using computer simulations that incorporate mathematical equations and data on factors such as raindrop size, velocity, and surface characteristics. These simulations can also take into account variables like wind speed and direction, which can affect the behavior of raindrops.

3. What are some common surface characteristics that can impact how rain hits a surface?

Some common surface characteristics that can impact rain hitting a surface include the texture, slope, and composition of the surface. For example, a smooth surface will cause raindrops to bounce off or slide more easily compared to a rough surface with uneven features.

4. How accurate are models of rain hitting a surface?

The accuracy of models of rain hitting a surface depends on the complexity and quality of the model, as well as the amount and accuracy of the input data used. In general, models can provide a good understanding of the overall behavior of raindrops, but may not be able to accurately predict the exact location and behavior of each individual raindrop.

5. What are some potential applications of modeling rain hitting a surface?

Modeling rain hitting a surface has many potential applications, including weather forecasting, predicting erosion and flooding, and designing more effective rainwater management systems. It can also be used in fields such as agriculture and engineering, to better understand how rain affects crops, structures, and other systems.

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