Using a cloud to replenish parched groundwater modeling efforts

Ground Water. 2010 May-Jun;48(3):360-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1745-6584.2010.00699.x. Epub 2010 Mar 19.

Abstract

Groundwater models can be improved by introduction of additional parameter flexibility and simultaneous use of soft-knowledge. However, these sophisticated approaches have high computational requirements. Cloud computing provides unprecedented access to computing power via the Internet to facilitate the use of these techniques. A modeler can create, launch, and terminate "virtual" computers as needed, paying by the hour, and save machine images for future use. Such cost-effective and flexible computing power empowers groundwater modelers to routinely perform model calibration and uncertainty analysis in ways not previously possible.

MeSH terms

  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Water Movements*