Introduction hydrogeology

Hydrogeology (hydro- meaning water, and -geology meaning the study of the Earth) 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 hydrogeologist specializes in the search for underground water and in its exploitation whether for industrial or domestic use. His services are required in finding and exploiting aquifer (water bearing strata), studying the quality of waters and conserving them.

Hydrogeology (like most earth sciences) 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. Groundwater does not always flow in the subsurface down-hill following the surface topography; groundwater follows pressure gradients (flow from high pressure gradient to low) often following fractures and conduits in circuitous paths. Taking into account the interplay of the different facets of a multi-component system often requires knowledge in several diverse fields at both the experimental and theoretical levels.

The hydrogeologist specializes in the search for underground water and in its exploitation whether for industrial or domestic use. Apart from his geological knowledge, he must also be skilled in hydraulic. His services are required in finding and exploiting aquifer (water bearing strata), studying the quality of waters and conserving them.