Dispersion

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Definition

Spreading and mixing of chemical constituents in groundwater due to microscopic variations in velocities within and between interstices.

Description

Process by which water, solutes and suspended molecules travel at rates different from the average linear velocity in the direction of the groundwater flow (longitudinal dispersion) or perpendicular to groundwater flow (transverse or vertical dispersion).

Why is dispersion important?

Dispersion is one of the mechanisms that controls the spreading of chemicals and contaminants in the subsurface.