AbstractThe analysis of capture zones of pumping wells is useful for designing pumping systems and wellhead protection programs. Using discharge potentials, equations are derived that can be applied to confined, unconfined, or combined confined and unconfined aquifers. The transient equations are transcendental and cannot be solved explicitly. However, infinite‐time (steady‐state) equations are presented which can be solved. They define an area in which, theoretically, all the water in the aquifer will eventually reach the pumping well, although the equations do not consider the effects of hydrodynamic dispersion. Equations for calculating the stagnation point, upgradient divide, and dividing streamline within the aquifer and an example problem are presen