Abstract:The study of source-to-sink systems is an important field of research focused on understanding
the entire process of material transport from source areas, such as mountain ranges or other landforms, to sink
areas like river basins, lakes, or the ocean. This process involves the weathering of parent rock, the erosion of
materials, their transport via various agents (such as wind, water, or ice), and their eventual deposition at sink
locations. Analyzing this system helps reveal dynamic surface changes, material cycling mechanisms, and how
these processes respond to environmental shifts over time. Understanding these complex processes is crucial for a
variety of scientific fields, including geomorphology, environmental science, and natural resource management.
Traditional methods used to study these systems, such as field observations and laboratory analyses, often face
several limitations. Data availability, low spatial-temporal resolution, and ambiguity in interpretation make it
difficult to capture the rapid and dynamic changes occurring in natural systems. Furthermore, these methods are
not well-suited for analyzing long-term evolutionary processes or large-scale systems. As a result, numerical
modeling has become a critical tool in the study of source-to-sink systems, addressing these traditional limitations
by simulating complex processes over varying spatial and temporal scales. These models provide more
quantitative insights into the dynamics of erosion, transport, and deposition under different environmental
conditions.This paper highlights five key numerical tools commonly used in source-to-sink research: Dionisos,
SEDSIM, Landlab, goSPL, and Delft3D. Each tool has specific advantages that make them suitable for different
research needs. Dionisos, for instance, is particularly effective for modeling large-scale, long-term basin filling
processes, but it may not be as effective for simulating small-scale, dynamic changes. SEDSIM, which is based
on hydrodynamic equations, offers highly accurate results, especially in clastic sedimentary processes, though it
tends to be slower and more focused on specific types of sediments. Landlab is highly customizable and capable
of multi-process simulations, but it requires advanced programming skills for its effective use. goSPL excels at
handling global-scale, high-resolution simulations, though it struggles with localized phenomena and demands
significant computational resources. Delft3D, meanwhile, is ideal for small-scale, fine-detail simulations,
particularly in coastal, riverine, and lacustrine environments, although it faces challenges in large-scale
applications.As computational power continues to grow and algorithms improve, future advancements in sourceto-
sink modeling are expected. The integration of big data and AI will likely play a key role in driving further
developments, enabling more accurate predictions, facilitating multidisciplinary integration, and fostering the
intelligent evolution of the field.