Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology (pronunciation: /ˌhaɪdrədʒiˈɒlədʒi/), also known as geohydrology, is the area of geology that deals with the distribution and movement of groundwater in the soil and rocks of the Earth's crust (commonly in aquifers). The term geohydrology is often used interchangeably with hydrogeology.
The etymology of the term "hydrogeology" is derived from the Greek words "hydro-", meaning water, and "-geology", meaning the study of the Earth.
History
The study of hydrogeology can be traced back to Leonardo da Vinci who, in his codex Leicester, noted that "water is the driver of nature". However, the term "hydrogeology" itself is relatively modern, first appearing in the literature in the 19th century.
Principles
Hydrogeology is an interdisciplinary subject; it can be difficult to account fully for the chemical, physical, biological and even legal interactions between soil, water, nature and society. The study of the interaction between groundwater movement and geology can be quite complex. Key concepts include hydraulic head and groundwater flow, while the applications of hydrogeology include hydrology, earth science, and civil engineering.
Related Terms
- Aquifer: A body of permeable rock which can contain or transmit groundwater.
- Groundwater: Water held underground in the soil or in pores and crevices in rock.
- Hydraulic head: The potential energy available per weight unit of water, at the location of the point in question.
- Groundwater flow: The movement of groundwater, which can be defined by the 'groundwater flow equation'.
See Also
References
External Links
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