Abstract
The relationship between perceptual models, conceptual models and physically based distributed models of hydrological processes is analyzed. It is shown that physically-based models must be considered as conceptual models at the scale at which they are used. A simplified distributed model (TOP MODEL) that can take account of heterogeneity in catchment topography and soils is introduced. A likelihood based procedure for estimating the uncertainties associated with the predictions of complex distributed models is described.
“As scientists we are intrigued by the possibility of assembling our concepts and bits of knowledge into a neat package to show that we do, after all, understand our science and its complex interrelated phenomena.” (W. M. Kohler, 1969)
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Beven, K. (1991). Spatially Distributed Modeling: Conceptual Approach to Runoff Prediction. In: Bowles, D.S., O’Connell, P.E. (eds) Recent Advances in the Modeling of Hydrologic Systems. NATO ASI Series, vol 345. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-3480-4_17
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-3480-4_17
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