Water Supply (Mar 2021)

Sensitivity analysis of external conditions based on the MARS-Sobol method: case study of Tai Lake, China

  • Ruichen Xu,
  • Yong Pang,
  • Zhibing Hu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.2166/ws.2020.359
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 21, no. 2
pp. 723 – 735

Abstract

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This study utilized the ECO Lab model calculation samples of Tai Lake, in combination with robust analysis and the GCV test, to promote a faster intelligent application of machine learning and evaluate the MARS machine learning method. The results revealed that this technique can be better trained with small-scale samples, as indicated by the R2 values of the water quality test results, which were all >0.995. In combination with the Sobol sensitivity analysis method, the contribution degree of the parameterized external conditions as well as the relationship with the water quality were examined, which indicated that TP and TN are primarily related to the external input water quality and flow, while Chl-a is related to inflow (36.42%), TP (26.65%), wind speed (25.89%), temperature (8.38%), thus demonstrating that the governance of Chl-a is more difficult. In general, the accuracy and interpretability of MARS machine learning are more in line with the actual situation, and the use of the Sobol method can save computer calculation time. The results of this research can provide a certain scientific basis for future intelligent management of lake environments. HIGHLIGHTS Introduce a MARS – machine learning method coupled with a Sobol sensitive analysis approach.; Coupled methods can solve the same problems with less time.; The declared goal of this research is to provide a certain scientific basis for future intelligent management of lake environments.;

Keywords