Groundwater in the hydrologic cycle. Examination of flow through porous media, regional flow, influence of wells, water chemistry, and contaminant transport. Emphasis on practical environmental problems.
Athena Title
Hydrogeology
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GEOL 4220, GEOL 6220
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will understand the basic principles of flow through porous media, natural water chemistry, and contaminant transport.
Students will understand anthropogenic influences on the groundwater resources, including the influence of wells (water supply) and contamination by soluble and non aqueous phase liquids.
Students will understand groundwater and vadose zone remediation techniques.
Topical Outline
Week 1:
Hydrologic Cycle
Climate & Precipitation
Week 2:
Groundwater/porous media
Darcy's Law, conductivity, hydraulic head
Week 3:
Aquifers
Nature of unconsolidated materials & rocks
Week 4:
Groundwater in Southeast
Week 5:
Groundwater in Northeast & Midwest
Groundwater in High Plains
Week 6:
Groundwater in California
Hour Exam I
Week 7:
Streamlines, Capture zones
Review of Exam I
Week 8:
Well hydraulics
Pump tests, Slug tests
Week 9:
Salt water intrusion
Springs, lakes
Week 10:
Groundwater contamination
Water quality monitoring
