Investigating Groundwater

Investigating Groundwater provides an integrated approach to the challenges associated with locating groundwater. Uniquely, the book offers a review of the wide range of techniques that can be deployed to investigate this important resource. While many of the practical examples given are based on Australian experience, the methods have worldwide applicability. The book is published in colour and includes many original diagrams and photographs. A significant effort has been made to provide consistent terminology, and SI units are used throughout the text.

The book begins with an introduction to the historical significance of groundwater and presents an account of climate change. It follows with a description of the occurrence of groundwater in different rock types. A detailed account of surface water techniques is provided, followed by an exploration of the interconnections between surface water and groundwater. Four chapters cover groundwater hydraulics, which are then followed by four chapters dedicated to the latest geophysical techniques. Once the optimal location for a borehole is determined using these techniques, the book describes appropriate drilling methods, reviews geophysical logging, hydrochemical and isotopic techniques, and concludes with a detailed description of groundwater flow to a well.

Written for a worldwide audience of degree-level geology and engineering practitioners, academics, and students involved in groundwater resource investigation methods, Investigating Groundwater is essential reading for those involved in groundwater research.

Key Features:

• Presents the theoretical background and a detailed description of the techniques used in groundwater investigation.
• Describes the general occurrence of groundwater in different rock types, surface water hydrology, and interconnected surface and groundwater systems.
• Provides detailed descriptions of geophysical techniques, including seismic, electrical, gravity, and heat methods, as well as an account of available geophysical logging methods.
• Reviews hydrochemical and isotope methods, followed by an account of drilling techniques.
• Gives a detailed account of radial flow to a well, including appropriate modelling and pump-testing techniques, along with considerations of non-linear flow.
• Of interest to anyone involved in the development of groundwater resources, whether for domestic supply, agriculture, or mining.