Program Overview

HYD200 Hydrogeology

The aim of this subject is to examine how groundwater fits into the global hydrologic cycle and to introduce the physical characteristics and processes that govern the storage and flow of water through various geologic media and settings. This subject also focuses on methods of analysing hydrogeologic flow systems and measuring aquifer properties and potential for exploitation.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Environmental Sciences

Prerequisites

HYD100

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• Be able to describe in detail the role of groundwater in the water cycle and its components
• Be able to demonstrate understanding of occurrence and stage of groundwater within geologic media
• Be able to demonstrate understanding of field methods and to use data analysis techniques to estimate hydrogeologic parameters and hydrogeologic properties
• Be able to describe the theory and explain the mechanisms of groundwater movement
• Be able to show comprehensive knowledge of field experiments for hydrogeologic testing and groundwater wells
• Be able to explain how surface-groundwater interaction takes place

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Introduction to hydrogeologic formations including their types and properties
• Groundwater movement - groundwater mechanics, Darcy's law, hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity, homogeneity and isotropy
• General flow equations for confined and unconfined flow
• Groundwater recharge
• Field methods - well drilling, well design and development, monitoring wells and measuring water levels and pumping test
• Principle of geophysics and geophysical surveys
• Groundwater flow to wells
• Groundwater budget and groundwater mining and its effects
• Groundwater salinity and land degradation issues
• Surface-groundwater interactions from surface water bodies

Residential School

This subject contains a 3-day Compulsory Residential School, including laboratory and fieldwork.