Heterogeneous

Top Previous Next

Definition

Of dissimilar nature.  Different in structure or composition throughout.

Description

Refers to materials having different properties at different points; diverse in character or content; in reality, all aquifers are heterogeneous, although we assume homogeneity in order to simplify their analysis; opposite of homogeneous.

Why is heterogeneous important?

High degrees of heterogeneity make it difficult to quantify and simulate aquifer systems.