On simulation and analysis of variable-rate pumping tests

Abstract

Analytical solutions for constant-rate pumping tests are widely used to infer aquifer properties. In this note, we implement a methodology that approximates the time-varying pumping record as a series of segments with linearly varying pumping rates. We validate our approach using an analytical solution for a sinusoidally varying pumping test. We also apply our methodology to analyze synthetic test data and compare the results with those from a commonly used method where rate variations are represented by a series of constant-rate steps.