In 1935, Charles V. Theis published a brief article that was the first transient solution for groundwater flow toward a well. He did so by understanding the vital analogy between groundwater flow and heat transfer. As John Bredehoeft says: “It takes real genius to see the basic form of the underlying theory - this was Theis' contribution’’. Today, the Theis transient pump test solution is used by all hydrogeologists for well test interpretation. It is one of the many consequences of his discovery. The Theis legacy is not limited to the transient theory. He was one of the first scientists to emphasize the importance of geological heterogeneity. Further information about Theis’ life and discoveries is available in the references provided below.
Through a discussion with John Bredehoeft, C.V. Theis recalls the early days of hydrogeology at the US Geological Survey. Together, they take a journey through Theis’ major discoveries, discussing their context, and the roles of the other important people that were involved at that time (Hubbert, Wenzel, Jacob, Meinzer, Thiem, etc.). We discover Theis’ personality… Read more »
This video is an edited and illustrated selection of the original C.V. Theis interview by John Bredehoeft. It is focused on his main scientific accomplishments and on his relations with some of the most influential geologists at that time (Hubbert, Meinzer, Wenzel). Theis’ major contributions to hydrogeology including transient theory of groundwater flow, heat-flow analogy,… Read more »