The problem of scaling in grid-related hydrological process modelling

Abstract

This article shows some important scaling aspects that exist in hydrological process grid modelling with GIS, with respect to selecting the optimal grid width. Hydrologically relevant space parameter fields should often be regarded as self-similar fractals for which certain invariance characteristics are applied. These characteristics are especially important if there is an extensive change in the model grid width. The self-similarity generates simple scaling laws, which can be used for rescaling procedures. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.