Groundwater: meaning, definitions and examples
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groundwater
[ˈɡraʊndˌwɔːtər ]
Definition
water source
Groundwater is water that is held underground in the soil or in pores and fractures of rock. It is a key component of the hydrological cycle and provides a significant source of freshwater for drinking, agriculture, and industry. Often found in aquifers, groundwater can be accessed through wells and springs.
Synonyms
aquifer water, subsurface water, well water.
Examples of usage
- Farmers rely on groundwater for irrigation in dry seasons.
- Contamination of groundwater can lead to serious health issues.
- Testing groundwater levels helps in understanding drought conditions.
Interesting Facts
Hydrology
- Over 97% of the Earth's fresh water is found underground, making it crucial for drinking water and agriculture.
- Groundwater comes from rain and melting snow that seeps into the ground, a process called infiltration.
Environmental Impact
- Over-extraction of groundwater can lead to subsidence, where the ground sinks due to the loss of support from underground water.
- Pollution from pesticides, fertilizers, and waste can contaminate groundwater, making it unsafe for drinking.
Cultural Significance
- Many ancient civilizations relied on groundwater for their survival, digging wells which became community gathering spots.
- In places like the Middle East, traditional water management practices for wells and qanats reflect a deep respect for this hidden resource.
Geological Aspects
- Groundwater exists in aquifers, which are layers of rock that can store and transmit water effectively.
- The depth of groundwater can vary greatly depending on the geographical location and environmental factors.
Climate Change
- Changes in climate can affect recharge rates of groundwater, leading to significant impacts on water availability.
- As surface water sources dry up, reliance on groundwater can increase, stressing these resources further.
Translations
Translations of the word "groundwater" in other languages:
🇵🇹 água subterrânea
🇮🇳 भूमिगत जल
🇩🇪 Grundwasser
🇮🇩 air tanah
🇺🇦 підземні води
🇵🇱 wody gruntowe
🇯🇵 地下水
🇫🇷 eau souterraine
🇪🇸 agua subterránea
🇹🇷 yeraltı suyu
🇰🇷 지하수
🇸🇦 المياه الجوفية
🇨🇿 podzemní voda
🇸🇰 podzemná voda
🇨🇳 地下水
🇸🇮 podzemna voda
🇮🇸 grunnvatn
🇰🇿 жерар суы
🇬🇪 ქვედა წყლები
🇦🇿 yeraltı suyu
🇲🇽 agua subterránea