The goal of this document is the provision of an introductory explanation for the structure and use of the MAGNET groundwater modeling software. The motivation is a need for a groundwater flow and transport modeling package that can be used in a classroom teaching environment. Critical to the success of such a package is a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows modeling information to be introduced graphically and subsequently transforms this information into computer readable form. The GUI also converts the numerical output from the model into graphical format that facilitates use by the groundwater professional.
MAGNET is a very comprehensive groundwater modeling package that incorporates capabilities beyond those suitable for student use. Consequently, the following documentation addresses only those elements of the program deemed likely to be used in the classroom environment.
The GUI design allows for the selection and use of specific capabilities although such capabilities may be in different sections of this documentation. Nevertheless, the construct of a model from first principles beginning from the first section through the remainder of the document is most probably the pathway of least resistance for most new users. [i]