Role of tracer methods in hydrology as a source of physical information. Basic concepts and definitions. Time relationship in dynamic systems

The paper provides a general review on the systems theory approach for the tracer methodology, indicating also the relations of the system theory to other available approaches such as deterministic mechanism description and stochastic approaches. Methodology and formulations of systems approach as applied to tracer use in steady-state cases are discussed. Extension of the systems approach for tracer use in non-steady-state cases and input-output relationships for time varying systems are also given. (author)