Kayla C. Lewis

A Model for Tracking Fronts of Stress-Induced Permeability Enhancement

Using an analogy to the classical Stefan problem, we construct evolution equations for the fluid pore pressure on both sides of a propagating stress-induced damage front. Closed form expressions are derived for the position of the damage front as a function of time for the cases of thermally-induced damage as well as damage induced by over-pressure. We derive expressions for the flow rate during constant pressure fluid injection from the surface corresponding to a spherically shaped subsurface damage front. Finally, our model results suggest an interpretation of field data obtained during constant pressure fluid injection over the course of 16 days at an injection site near Desert Peak, NV.

An Easy & Fun Way to Teach about How Science “Works”: Popularizing Haack's Crossword-Puzzle Analogy

ABSTRACT Science is a complex process, and we must not teach our students overly simplified versions of “the” scientific method. We propose that students can uncover the complex realities of scientific thinking by exploring the similarities and differences between solving the familiar crossword puzzles and scientific “puzzles.” Similarly to solving a crossword puzzle, solving puzzles in science is a complex and creative process in which hypotheses and theories evolve through the accumulation of many pieces of independent, yet interlocking, lines of evidence. We discuss the important lessons from Haacks crosswordpuzzle analogy and how it applies to teaching science.