Aquifer

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Aquifer

Aquifer (/ˈækwɪfər/) is a term used in hydrogeology to describe a subsurface layer or body of rock that can store and transmit groundwater to wells and springs.

Etymology

The term 'Aquifer' originates from the Latin words 'aqua' meaning 'water', and 'ferre' meaning 'to bear or carry'. Thus, an aquifer essentially carries water.

Definition

An aquifer is a geologic formation, a group of formations, or a part of a formation that contains sufficient saturated permeable material to yield significant quantities of water to wells and springs.

Types of Aquifers

Aquifers can be categorized into two main types:

  • Unconfined aquifer - Also known as a water table or phreatic aquifer, these are near the ground surface and have no overlying impermeable rock layer to separate them from the atmosphere.
  • Confined aquifer - Also known as artesian or pressure aquifers, these are overlain by less permeable materials and are not directly connected with the surface.

Related Terms

  • Aquifer test - A test to study the aquifer properties including its hydraulic conductivity and storage coefficient.
  • Aquifer depletion - A decrease in the amount of water that an aquifer can store, often due to over-extraction of water.
  • Aquifer recharge - The process by which water is added to an aquifer, typically through rainfall or irrigation.

See Also

External links

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