Hydrogeology: Objectives, Methods, Applications

Description: Hydrogeology, the science of groundwater, requires a multidisciplinary approach involving many other sciences: surface hydrology, climatology, geology, geography, physics, chemistry, biology, and more. This book takes a broad view, considers water as a single entity, and presents many examples illustrating the variety of existing hydrogeological problems and the diverse scientific, technical, and social approaches used in resolving them. It is intended primarily for students of Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Physical Geography. It will also be useful to all players involved in water-related issues: hydrogeologists, geologists, soil scientists, agronomists, civil engineers, and developers.

Contents: Concepts in Hydrogeology Definition and history of hydrogeology Groundwater's place in the Earth Sciences Applications of hydrogeology Water cycles The infiltration of water below ground and the concept of an aquifer Porous aquifers and groundwater circulation Fractured aquifers Karst aquifers Island and coastal aquifers Thermomineral water and geothermal energy Water quality Tools and Methods of Hydrogeology Preliminary documentation The study of the geometry of aquifers Characterizing aquifers Hydrogeologic syntheses and budgets Diviners and divining Water Resources Water needs and their evolution The exploitation of aquifers Protection of aquifers Management of aquifers Examples of the search for drinking water Hydrogeology in Civil Engineering Water and construction Mass wasting Underground construction Dams and reservoirs Underground storage Conclusions