System Boundaries
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The system boundaries of the water resources system are to be set in a way that all loads and processes which are important for the problem are represented in the model. This also includes all system states relevant for control. Often, the first definition of system boundaries is based on the boundaries of a hydrological catchment (e.g. determined in a GIS) and if necessary is extended if processes/states outside the boundaries influence the system or if information outside the catchment is to be used, e.g. for calibration. Still, the system boundaries can change due to the later division of the system into system elements. If sub-basins are mapped e.g. as external inflows by point source, the system boundaries become smaller accordingly.
After the system boundaries are set, the water resources system can be divided into system elements.