Dear all,
I am curious about this 'simple' hydrology setup; fluid flow along the highly permeable foliation.
As shown in the attached note, I would like to calculate the fluid flow along the foliation (enclosed by red lines). I assume that the permeability along the foliation (Kp) is 100 times the permeability normal to the foliation: Kp = 100 Kn.
To make the setup simple, I only consider the buoyancy of the fluid (density difference between the background solid and fluid). So, the velocity equation can be written as shown in the note.
Because I used the permeability anisotropy, the permeability should be a tensor. After solving the equation, I have Vf_x and Vf_y for the x- and y-direction velocity. Because of the permeability anisotorpy, I have the x-direction velocity even if the gravity is the only force.
But, some people argues that the horizontal fluid flow is not possible in this frame because the gravity is only working along the y-direction. They say that the horizontal pressure gradient (del_P) should be required for the horizontal fluid flow. When I listen this, it seems right but, I am very curious about what's is wrong with my note, which clearly shows the horizontal velocity??
This may be a simple issue to someone. Please let me clarify my understand.
Thanks in advance!
Best,
Changyeol
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