Hydrogeology Objectives, Methods, Applications

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, or developers.

Concepts in Hydrogeology Definition and history of hydrogeologyGroundwater’s place in the Earth SciencesApplications of hydrogeologyWater cyclesThe infiltration of water below ground and the concept of an aquiferPorous aquifers and groundwater circulationFractured aquifersKarst aquifersIsland and coastal aquifersThermomineral water and geothermal energyWater quality Tools and Methods of Hydrogeology Preliminary documentationThe study of the geometry of aquifersCharacterizing aquifersHydrogeologic syntheses and budgetsDiviners and divining Water Resources Water needs and their evolutionThe exploitation of aquifersProtection of aquifersManagement of aquifersExamples of the search for drinking water Hydrogeology in Civil Engineering Water and constructionMass wastingUnderground constructionDams and reservoirsUnderground storage Conclusions

Gilli, Éric; Mangan, Christian; Mudry, Jacques