Hydrogeology Objectives, Methods, Applications [Hardcover]

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.

Concepts in Hydrogeology
Definition and history of hydrogeology
Groundwaters 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