Analysis of groundwater quality using water quality index and conventional graphical methods: the Volta region,Ghana

Conventional graphical and statistical methods were used with water quality indices to characterize the hydrochemistry of groundwater from the northern part of the Volta region of Ghana. The objective was to determine the processes that affect the hydrochemistry and the variation of these processes in space among the three main geological terrains: the Buem formation, Voltaian System and the Togo series that underlie the area, and to determine the suitability of groundwater from the area for drinking purposes. The Q-mode cluster analysis reveals three main water groups. The groups established from the Q-mode HCA appear to indicate different degrees of weathering which could further indicate varying levels of fracturing aquifer hydraulic properties. R-mode HCA and factor analysis (using varimax rotation and Kaiser Criterion) were then applied to determine the significant sources of variation in the hydrochemistry. This study finds that groundwater hydrochemistry in the area is controlled by the weathering of silicate and carbonate minerals, as well as the chemistry of infiltrating precipitation. Mineral activity diagrams for the CaO–Na₂O–Al₂O₃–SiO₂–H₂O and CaO–MgO–Al₂O₃–SiO₂–H₂O systems plotted for the area indicate stability in the smectite field and attribute hydrochemistry to the weathering of silicate minerals. Silicate mineral weathering and the effects of precipitation appear to be pervasive among all the three main geological terrains, whereas carbonate weathering is localized among the Voltaian aquifers. Cation exchange does not appear to play a significant role in the hydrochemistry but mild Water quality indices (WQI) were calculated for the samples using the concentrations of Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cl⁻, NO₃ ⁻, F⁻, and EC at the various sample locations. The WQI values indicate that groundwater from the study area is of excellent quality for drinking purposes. WQI values from groundwater samples are averagely higher than samples taken from surface water sources in the area. This implies that geology has had an impact on the WQI of groundwater in the area.     

Identification of major sources controlling groundwater chemistry from a hard rock terrain — A case study from Mettur taluk,Salem district,Tamil Nadu,India

The study area Mettur forms an important industrial town situated NW of Salem district. The geology of the area is mainly composed of Archean crystalline metamorphic complexes. To identify the major process activated for controlling the groundwater chemistry an attempt has been made by collecting a total of 46 groundwater samples for two different seasons, viz., pre-monsoon and post-monsoon. The groundwater chemistry is dominated by silicate weathering and (Na + Mg) and (Cl + SO₄) accounts of about 90% of cations and anions. The contribution of (Ca + Mg) and (Na + K) to total cations and HCO₃ indicates the domination of silicate weathering as major sources for cations. The plot for Na to Cl indicates higher Cl in both seasons, derived from Anthropogenic (human) sources from fertilizer, road salt, human and animal waste, and industrial applications, minor representations of Na also indicates source from weathering of silicate-bearing minerals. The plot for Na/Cl to EC indicates Na released from silicate weathering process which is also supported by higher HCO₃ values in both the seasons. Ion exchange process is also activated in the study area which is indicated by shifting to right in plot for Ca + Mg to SO₄ + HCO₃. The plot of Na-Cl to Ca + Mg-HCO₃-SO₄ confirms that Ca, Mg and Na concentrations in groundwater are derived from aquifer materials. Thermodynamic plot indicates that groundwater is in equilibrium with kaolinite, muscovite and chlorite minerals. Saturation index of silicate and carbonate minerals indicate oversaturation during pre-monsoon and undersaturation during post-monsoon, conforming dissolution and dilution process. In general, water chemistry is guided by complex weathering process, ion exchange along with influence of Cl ions from anthropogenic impact.     

安徽马鞍山市当涂地区地下水水化学特征及演化机制

【研究目的】 了解长江中下游平原地区地下水流系统并深入分析其地下水水化学特征及其演化机制。【研究方法】 综合马鞍山市当涂地区的水文地质条件、水动力场等,基于研究区水化学基本特征,运用多元统计分析、水化学图件、离子比值和反向水文地球化学模拟等方法对该地区浅层地下水水化学演化进行分析。【研究结果】 结果表明：（1）研究区地下水主要为低矿化度偏碱性水,地下水组分中阳离子以Ca²⁺和Mg²⁺为主,阴离子以HCO₃^-和SO₄^2-为主。（2）研究区地下水水化学类型主要可分为7类,其中松散岩类孔隙含水岩组和碎屑岩类孔隙裂隙含水岩组的水化学类型主要为HCO₃^-Ca型、HCO₃^-Ca·Na型、HCO₃·Cl-Ca·Na型以及HCO₃^-Ca·Mg型;基岩类裂隙含水岩组的化学类型主要为HCO₃·SO₄-Ca·Mg型和SO₄·HCO₃^-Ca·Mg型。（3）研究区浅层地下水水样超标率为46%,总体水质较差,超标率较高的组分依次为Mn、高锰酸盐指数（COD_Mn）、硝酸盐（以N计）、Fe、As、氨氮（以N计）等。（4）研究区地下水的化学组分主要受到岩石风化作用的控制;此外,还存在Na-Ca的正向阳离子交替吸附作用。反向水文地球化学模拟结果进一步定量论证了水岩相互作用对本区浅层地下水组分的形成和演化起着主导作用。【结论】 研究区地下水主要为低矿化度偏碱性,主要可分为松散岩类孔隙水、碎屑岩类孔隙裂隙水和基岩类裂隙水。主要离子比例和反向水文地球化学模拟揭示了本区浅层地下水化学组分主要是地下水溶滤方解石、白云石等碳酸盐矿物、石英、长石等硅酸盐矿物,高岭土等黏土矿物以及岩盐、石膏等达到过饱和之后形成的。     

Isotope hydrochemical approach to understand fluoride release into groundwaters of Ilkal area,Bagalkot District,Karnataka, India

Isotope and hydrochemical investigations have been carried out in the Ilkal area of Karnataka, India, in order to determine the source and mechanism of fluoride release into groundwaters and to understand groundwater hydrochemistry. Agriculture, granite quarrying and rock-polishing industries are the main occupations in this area. Closepet granite, Peninsular gneiss and Dharwar schists are the major geological formations. Results show that the fluoride concentration in groundwater is 0.3–6.5 mg/L and it is found to increase from recharge area to discharge area. Fluoride variability is found to be influenced by the geology of the area and depth wise correlation was not observed. Water samples are unsaturated with respect to fluorite, indicating the possibility of further increase in fluoride in groundwater. Positive correlations between fluoride with sodium and bicarbonate in groundwater show that high fluoride content and alkaline sodic characteristics are the result of dissolution of fluoride bearing minerals, possibly derived from weathered granite and gneiss. A positive correlation between fluoride and δ¹⁸O, and the presence of high tritium in fluoride-contaminated groundwater, point to contribution from surface waters, contaminated by anthropogenic activities. Dumping of rock wastes that are rich in fluoride into the streams by the rock-polishing industries plays a significant role in contaminating groundwater.     

Geochemistry characterization of groundwater in an agricultural area of Razan,Hamadan, Iran

This study was conducted to evaluate factors regulating groundwater quality in an area with agriculture as main use. Thirty groundwater samples have been collected from Razan area (Hamadan, Iran) for hydrochemical investigations to understand the sources of dissolved ions and assess the chemical quality of the groundwater. The chemical compositions of the groundwater are dominated by Na⁺, Ca²⁺, HCO₃ ⁻, Cl⁻ and SO₄ ²⁻, which have been derived largely from natural chemical weathering of carbonate, gypsum and anthropogenic activities of fertilizer’s source. The production of SO₄ ²⁻ has multiple origins, mainly from dissolution of sulphate minerals, oxidation of sulphide minerals and anthropogenic sources. The major anthropogenic components in the groundwater include Na⁺, Cl⁻, SO₄ ²⁻ and NO₃ ⁻, with Cl⁻ and NO₃ ⁻ being the main contributors to groundwater pollution in Razan area.     

Evaluation of hydrogeochemical processes in the Pleistocene aquifers of Middle Ganga Plain, Uttar Pradesh, India

Evaluation of major ion chemistry and solute acquisition process controlling water chemical composition were studied by collecting a total of fifty-one groundwater samples in shallow (<25 m) and deep aquifer (>25 m) in the Varanasi area. Hydrochemical facies, Mg-HCO₃ dominated in the largest part of shallow groundwater followed by Na-HCO₃ and Ca-HCO₃ whereas Ca-HCO₃ is dominated in deep groundwater followed by Mg-HCO₃ and Na-HCO₃. High As concentration (>50 μg/l) is found in some of the villages situated in northeastern parts (i.e. adjacent to the concave part of the meandering Ganga river) of the Varanasi area. Arsenic contamination is confined mostly in tube wells (hand pump) within the Holocene newer alluvium deposits, whereas older alluvial aquifers are having arsenic free groundwater. Geochemical modeling using WATEQ4F enabled prediction of saturation state of minerals and indicated dissolution and precipitation reactions occurring in groundwater. Majority of shallow and deep groundwater samples of the study area are oversaturated with carbonate bearing minerals and under-saturated with respect to sulfur and amorphous silica bearing minerals. Sluggish hydraulic conductivity in shallow aquifer results in higher mineralization of groundwater than in deep aquifer. But the major processes in deep aquifer are leakage of shallow aquifer followed by dominant ion-exchange and weathering of silicate minerals.     

Evidence for the occurrence of hydrogeochemical processes in the groundwater of Khoy plain,northwestern Iran,using ionic ratios and geochemical modeling

Rapid population growth, industrialization, and agricultural expansion in the Khoy area (northwestern Iran) have led to its dependence on groundwater and degradation of groundwater quality. This study attempts to decipher the major processes and factors that degrade the groundwater quality of the Khoy plain. For this purpose, 54 groundwater samples from unconfined and confined aquifers of the plain were collected in July 2017 and analyzed for major cations and anions (Na, K, Ca, Mg, HCO₃, SO_4, and Cl), minor ions (NO₃ and F), and Al. Magnesium and bicarbonate were identified as the dominant cation and anion, respectively. Several ionic ratios and geochemical modeling using PHREEQC indicated that the most important hydrogeochemical processes to affect groundwater quality in the plain were weathering and dissolution of evaporitic and silicate minerals, mixing, and ion exchange. There were smaller effects from evaporation and anthropogenic factors (e.g., industries). Results showed that the high salinity of the groundwater in the northeast area of the plain was due to the high solubility of the evaporitic minerals, e.g., halite and gypsum. Reverse ion exchange and the contribution of mineral dissolution were more significant than ion exchange in the northeastern part of the plain. Elevated salinity of the groundwater in the southeast was attributed mostly to reverse ion exchange and somewhat to evaporation.     

Early Cretaceous Magma Mingling in Xiaocuo, Southeastern China Continental Margin: Implications for Subduction of Paleo-Pacific Plate

Magma mingling has been identified within the continental margin of southeastern China.This study focuses on the relationship between mafic and felsic igneous rocks in composite dikes and plutons in this area,and uses this relationship to examine the tectonic and geodynamic implications of the mingling of mafic and felsic magmas.Mafic magmatic enclaves(MMEs) show complex relationships with the hosting Xiaocuo granite in Fujian area,including lenticular to rounded porphyritic microgranular enclaves containing abundant felsic/mafic phenocrysts,elongate mafic enclaves,and back-veining of the felsic host granite into mafic enclaves.LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb analyses show crystallization of the granite and dioritic mafic magmatic enclave during ca.132 and 116 Ma.The host granite and MMEs both show zircon growth during repeated thermal events at-210 Ma and 160-180 Ma.Samples from the magma mingling zone generally contain felsic-derived zircons with well-developed growth zoning and aspect ratios of 2-3,and maficderived zircons with no obvious oscillatory zoning and with higher aspect ratios of 5-10.However,these two groups of zircons show no obvious trace element or age differences.The Hf-isotope compositions show that the host granite and MMEs have similar ε_(Hf)(t) values from negative to positive which suggest a mixed source from partial melting of the Meso-Neoproterozoic with involvement of enriched mantlederived magmas or juvenile components.The lithologies,mineral associations,and geochemical characteristics of the mafic and felsic rocks in this study area indicate that both were intruded together,suggesting Early Cretaceous mantle—crustal interactions along the southeastern China continental margin.The Early Cretaceous magma mingling is correlated to subduction of Paleo-Pacific plate.     

Identifying the Sources of Solutes in Karst Groundwater in Chongqing,China: a Combined Sulfate and Strontium Isotope Approach

Groundwater from karst subterranean streams is among the world’s most important sources of drinking water supplies, and the hydrochemical characteristics of karst water are impacted by both natural environment and people. Therefore, the study of hydrochemistry and its solutes’ sources is very important to ensure the normal function of life support systems. In this paper, thirty?five representative karst groundwater samples were collected from different aquifers (limestone and dolomite) and various land use types in Chongqing to trace the sources of solutes and relative hydrochemical processes. Hydrogeochemical types of karst groundwater in Chongqing were mainly of the Ca?HCO3 type or Ca (Mg)?HCO3 type. However, some hydrochemical types of karst groundwater were the K+Na+Ca?SO4 type (G25 site) or Ca?HCO3+SO4 type (G26 and G14 site), indicating that the hydrochemistry of these sites might be strongly influenced by anthropogenic activities or unique geological characteristics. The dissolved Sr concentrations of the studied groundwater ranged from 0.57 to 15.06 μmmol/L, and the 87Sr/86Sr varied from 0.70751 to 0.71627. The δ34S?SO42? fell into a range of ?6.8‰?21.5‰, with a mean value of 5.6‰. The variations of both 87Sr/86Sr and Sr values of the groundwater samples indicated that the Sr element was controlled by the weathering of limestone, dolomite and silicate rock. However, the figure of 87Sr/86Sr vs. Sr2+/[K++Na+] showed that the anthropogenic inputs also obviously contributed to the Sr contents. For tracing the detailed anthropogenic effects, we traced the sources of solutes collected karst groundwater samples in Chongqing according to the δ34S value of potential sulfate sources. The variations of both δ34S and 1/SO42? values of the groundwater samples indicated that the atmospheric acid deposition (AAD), dissolution of gypsum (GD), oxidation of sul?de mineral (OS) or anthropogenic inputs (SF: sewage or fertilizer) have contributed to solutes in karst groundwater. The influence of oxidation of sul?de mineral, atmospheric acid deposit and anthropogenic inputs to groundwater in Chongqing karst areas was much widespread.     

Geochemical Appraisal of Groundwater Quality in Ottapidaram Taluk,Thoothukudi District,Tamil Nadu using Graphical and Numerical Method

Groundwater qualities of coastal aquifers in the Ottapidaram taluk of Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu have been extensively monitored in post monsoon seasons in 2014 to assess its suitability in relation to domestic and drinking uses in four regions (N-S-EW). 34 groundwater samples were analyzed for various physicochemical attributes like pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Total dissolved solid (TDS), Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, HCO₃, CO₃, SO₄, NO₃, PO₄. Most of these parameters fall under not permissible limits. The western part of the study area is highly polluted from K, Cl, HCO₃ due to industrial/agriculture activity. The southern part is less polluted compared to other region. Hydrogeochemical processes controlling the water chemistry (Gibbs) indicates that most of groundwater samples fall at rock-weathering supremacy zone. Geochemical processes and temporal variation in the groundwater in this area are influenced by evaporation processes, ion exchange and dissolution of minerals. Major cation and anion ionic interaction indicate that weathering reactions have an inconsequential role in the hydrochemical processes of the shallow groundwater system. As a result of the hydrogeochemical analysis, seawater intrusion, aquifer rock weathering, sewer leakage are the overriding factors that determine the major ionic composition. The appropriate management plan is necessary to preserve precious groundwater resources.     

An assessment of groundwater salinization in Haryana state in India using hydrochemical tools in association with GIS

Unplanned abstraction of groundwater due to various land use land cover activities and variations in monsoonal rainfall have greatly affected the availability and quality of groundwater resources in semi-arid regions of India. In the present study, a study of the hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwater was undertaken in the Sonipat district of Haryana in India together with the use of stable isotope (δ¹⁸O and δD) measurements and GIS analysis. A total of 53 groundwater samples were collected from seven blocks of the district, and 14 water quality parameters and stable isotopes (δ¹⁸O and δD) were analysed to infer hydrogeochemical processes taking place in the area. The integration of hydrochemistry with GIS is very helpful to understand the factors governing in the area. The majority of the samples showed Na–Cl type of hydrochemical facies. The trilinear plot for major cations and anions in groundwater indicates dominance of sodium, calcium, chloride and bicarbonate ions. Nitrate plumes in the groundwater appear to be migrating in groundwater from the central and south-western parts of the area towards the urbanized areas. A total of 64% of the samples exceed the maximum permissible limit of 1.5 mg/L given by WHO for fluoride. Besides natural sources such as silicate and carbonate weathering, ion exchange, and reverse ion exchange, the leaching of surficial salts and untreated industrial wastes along with unregulated abstraction are contributing to poor groundwater quality in the study area. An assessment of saturation indices has shown that groundwater in the area is unsaturated with respect to anhydrite, halite and gypsum suggesting significant contribution of Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ and other ions in the groundwater. A scatter plot of δ¹⁸O versus Cl also suggests mixing of saline water with fresh groundwater.     

Assessment of the impact of industrial effluents on water quality in Patancheru and environs, Medak district, Andhra Pradesh, India

The effects of multiple industrial-pollutant sources on the groundwater system were evaluated in the Industrial Development Areas (IDAs) of Medak district, Andhra Pradesh (AP), India. The quality of groundwater in the region has been affected negatively due to the discharge of effluents on open land and into ponds, tanks, and streams. Water samples from surface-water bodies, dug wells,and bore wells were analyzed for their major ion concentrations. The high values of electrical conductivity (EC) and concentrations of Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl^–, and HCO₃ ^– indicate the impact of industrial effluents. Based on the hydrochemistry, the groundwater is classified into various types, such as sodium-chloride, sodium-bicarbonate, calcium-chloride, and magnesium-chloride, and its suitability for drinking and irrigation has been assessed. The present studies made it possible to demarcate areas of contaminated groundwater and those prone to contamination in the near future. Water in the area has deteriorated all along Nakka Vagu up to a maximum distance of 500–700 m from the eastern bank. The groundwater quality in and around Patancheru (to a depth of 30 m) has become hazardous. Some possible remedial measures are suggested. Electronic Publication     

Chemical characteristics of groundwater in parts of mountainous region, Alvand, Hamadan, Iran

Eighty-seven groundwater samples have been collected from a mountainous region (Alvand, Iran) for hydrochemical investigations to understand the sources of dissolved ions and assess the chemical quality of the groundwater. Most water quality parameters are within World Health Organization acceptable limits set for drinking water. The least mineralized water is found closest to the main recharge zones and the salinity of water increased towards the north of the basin. The most prevalent water type is Ca–HCO₃ followed by water types Ca–NO₃, Ca–Cl, Ca–SO₄ and Mg–HCO₃. The Ca–NO₃ water type is associated with high nitrate pollution. Agricultural and industrial activities were associated with elevated level of NO₃⁻. Mineral dissolution/weathering of evaporites dominates the major element hydrochemistry of the area. Chemical properties of groundwater in Alvand region are controlled both by natural geochemical processes and anthropogenic activities.     

Identification and evolution of hydrogeochemical processes in the groundwater environment in an area of the Palar and Cheyyar River Basins,Southern India

The Palar and Cheyyar River Basins in Tamil Nadu state of Southern India are characterised by different geological formations, and groundwater is the major source for domestic, agricultural and other water-related activities. Hydrogeochemical studies were carried out in this area with the objective of identifying the geochemical processes and their relation to groundwater quality. Groundwater samples were collected once a month from 43 groundwater wells in this area from January 1998 to July 1999. Sampling procedures and chemical analysis were carried out as per the standard methods. Chemical data are used for mathematical calculations and graphical plots to understand the chemical process and its relation to the groundwater quality. The chemical composition of groundwater in the central part of the study area mainly depends on the recharge from lakes and the river, which is explained by a mixing mechanism. In addition, weathering of silicate minerals controls the concentration of major ions such as sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium in the groundwater of this area. Further, the activity ratios indicate that the groundwater is in equilibrium with kaolinite, smectite and montmorrillonite. The reverse ion exchange process controls the concentration of calcium, magnesium and sodium in hard rock formations, and dissolution of carbonate minerals and accessory minerals is the source of Ca and Mg, in addition to cation exchange in the sedimentary formations. In general, the chemical composition of the groundwater in this area is influenced by rock–water interaction, dissolution and deposition of carbonate and silicate minerals, ion exchange, and surface water interactions.     

Petrogenesis of Mesoproterozoic K‐rich granitoids,southern Mt Angelay igneous complex,Cloncurry district,northwest Queensland

The K‐rich granitoids of the southern Mt Angelay igneous complex belong to the younger phases of the Williams and Naraku Batholiths (<1540 Ma) in the Cloncurry district. Granitoids of the complex form a series of I‐type, K‐rich, metaluminous monzodiorite to subaluminous syenogranite. These intrusions have geochemical affinities akin to ‘A‐type’ granites and contain plagioclase, alkali feldspar, quartz, biotite, hornblende and typically accessory magnetite, titanite, apatite and zircon. With increasing SiO₂ the granitoids vary from alkaline to subalkaline, and exhibit a decrease in TiO₂, Al₂O₃, Fe₂O₃*, MnO, MgO, CaO, P₂O₅, Cu, Sr, Zr, LREE and Eu, with an increase in Na₂O, K₂O, Rb, Pb, Th, U, Y and HREE. This suite of relatively oxidised granitoids (<1.0 log units above NNO) were emplaced after the peak of metamorphism and pre‐ to post‐D₃, a major east‐west horizontal‐shortening event. The synchronous emplacement of high‐temperature mafic (>960°C) and foliated felsic (>900°C) granitoids formed zones of mingled and mixed monzonite and quartz monzonite to monzogranite containing abundant rapakivi K‐feldspar. These intrusions are interpreted to have been derived from source rocks of different compositions, and probably by different degrees of partial melting. The unfoliated felsic granitoids are considered to represent the fractionated equivalents of older foliated felsic granitoids. All granitoids possess a Sr‐depleted and Y‐undepleted signature, which suggests that the source material probably contained plagioclase and no garnet, restricting magma production to <800–1000 MPa (～24–30 km). Underplating of mantle‐derived mafic material into mid‐crustal levels is considered the most viable mechanism to produce these high‐temperature K‐rich granitoids at these pressures. The composition of the felsic granitoids is consistent with derivation from a crustal source with a tonalitic to granodioritic composition. However, the mafic granitoids require a more mafic, possibly gabbroic source, which may have been supplemented with minor mantle‐derived material. These granitoids are also enriched in Th, U, LREE and depleted in Ba, Ti, Nb and Sr and compare closely to the Mesoproterozoic granitoids of the Gawler Craton. The economic significance of these styles of granitoids may also be highlighted by the close spatial relationship of hematitic K‐feldspar, magnetite, fluorite and pyrite‐rich veins, alteration and filled miarolitic cavities with the least‐evolved felsic intrusions. This style of veining has a probable magmatic origin and is similar to the gangue assemblage associated with Ernest Henry‐style Fe‐oxide‐(Cu–Au) mineralisation, which suggests that these granitoids represent prospective sources of fluids associated with Cu–Au mineralisation in the district.     

High- and Low-Temperature I-type Granites

Abstract: I– and S-type granites differ in several distinctive ways, as a consequence of their derivation from contrasting source rocks. The more mafic granites, whose compositions are closest to those of the source rocks, are most readily classified as I– or S–type. As granites become more felsic, compositions of the two types converge towards those of lowest temperature silicate melts. While discrimination of the two is therefore more difficult for such felsic rocks, that in no way invalidates the twofold subdivision. If felsic granite melts undergo fractional crystallisation, the major element compositions are not affected to any significant extent, but the concentrations of trace elements can vary widely. For some trace elements, fractional crystallisation causes the trace element abundances to diverge, so the I– and S– type granites are again easily separated. Such fractionated S-type granites can be distinguished, for example, by high P and low Th and Ce, relative to their I-type analogues. Our observations in the Lachlan Fold Belt show that there is no genetic basis for subdividing peraluminous granites into more mafic and felsic varieties, as has been attempted elsewhere. The subdivision of felsic peraluminous granites into I– and S-types is more appropriate, and mafic peraluminous granites are always S–type. In a given area, associated mafic and felsic S-type granites are likely to be closely related in origin, with the former comprising both restite-rich magmas and cumulate rocks, and the felsic granites corresponding to melts that may have undergone fractional crystallisation after prior restite separation. We propose a subdivision of I-type granites into two groups, formed at high and low temperatures. The high-temperature I–type granites formed from a magma that was completely or largely molten, and in which crystals of zircon were not initially present because the melt was undersaturated in zircon. In comparison with low-temperature I–type granites, the compositions extend to lower SiO₂ contents and the abundances of Ba, Zr and the rare earth elements initially increase with increasing SiO₂ in the more mafic rocks. While the high-temperature I–type granite magmas were produced by the partial melting of mafic source rocks, their low-temperature analogues resulted from the partial melting of quartzofeldspathic rocks such as older tonalites. In that second case, the melt produced was felsic and the more mafic low-temperature I–type granites have that character because of the presence of entrained and magmatically equilibrated restite. High temperature granites are more prospective for mineralisation, both because of that higher temperature and because they have a greater capacity to undergo extended fractional crystallisation, with consequent concentration of incompatible components, including H₂O.     

Identification and evaluation of the hydrogeochemical processes of the lower part of Wadi Siham catchment area, Tihama plain, Yemen

One hundred forty-eight groundwater samples were collected from the lower part of Wadi Siham catchment area for hydrogeochemical investigations to understand the hydrogeochemical processes affecting groundwater chemistry and their relation with groundwater quality. Groundwater in the study area is abstracted from different aquifers. The study area is characterized by arid climate and extremely high relative humidity. The results indicate that groundwater in the study area is fresh to brackish in nature. The abundance of the major ions is as follows: Na⁺¹?>?Ca⁺²?>?Mg⁺²?≥?K⁺¹ and Cl^?1?>?HCO ₃ ^?1 ?>?SO ₄ ^?2 ?>?NO ₃ ^?1 . Various graphical and ionic ration plots, statistical analyses, and saturation indices calculations have been carried out using chemical data to deduce a hydrochemical evaluation of the study area. The prevailing hydrogeochemical processes operating in the study area are dissolution, mixing, evaporation, ion exchange, and weathering of silicate minerals in the eastern part (recharge areas). The reverse ion exchange and seawater intrusion control the groundwater chemistry along the Red Sea coast areas and few parts of the study area. Deterioration in groundwater quality from anthropogenic activities has resulted from saltwater intrusion along the coastal areas due to groundwater overpumping and extensive use of fertilizers and infiltration of sewage water. Salinity and nitrate contamination are the two major problems in the area, which is alarming considering the use of this water for drinking.     

Ionic sources and water quality assessment around a reservoir in Tehri, Uttarakhand, Garhwal Himalaya

The paper discusses the ionic sources and chemical quality of the waters (surface and groundwater) around the Tehri reservoir in Uttarakhand, Garhwal, Himalaya, for drinking and irrigation purposes. The main Bhagirathi river, tributary streams and springs and groundwater are the main sources of water for the reservoir and inhabitant living around it. Fifty-two water samples were collected from springs, handpumps (borewell) and streams and were analysed for major ions. The pH is varying from 6.8 to 8.6 and EC from 28 to 820 μS/cm. The chemical composition of water is dominated by Ca, Mg and HCO₃. The high ratio of Ca + Mg/Na + K and low ratio of Na + K/TZ indicate dominance of carbonate dissolution as the main solute acquisition process in this part of Lesser Himalaya. The trilinear and X–Y plots suggest less contribution from silicate weathering and anthropogenic activities. The excess of Na over Cl indicating much of the alkalis in the waters of Tehri area have source other than precipitation possibly from silicate weathering. Recharged by meteoric water, the quality of water in the study area is controlled essentially by chemical processes occurring between water and lithology and locally altered by human activities. Among the trace metals the concentration of Fe at few locations has marginally exceeded the WHO and BIS standards of drinking water. The analytical result computed from various water quality indices indicate fairly good quality of water for both drinking and irrigation purposes. The factor analysis performed on the major ion data indicate two factors are the most important affecting the water quality of the area.     

Hydrochemical and isotopic characteristics of groundwater in the Yanqi Basin of Xinjiang province, northwest China

In this study, hydrochemical and isotope investigations were conducted in the Yanqi Basin to determine the chemical composition, and to gain insight into the groundwater recharge process in the Yanqi Basin. It mainly used hydrochemistry, environmental isotopes, and a series of comprehensive data interpretation, e.g., statistics, ionic ratios, and Piper diagram to obtain a better understanding of the functioning of the system. The following hydrochemical processes were identified as the main factors controlling the water quality of the groundwater system: weathering of silicate minerals, dissolution, ion exchange, and to a lesser extent, evaporation, which seemed to be more pronounced down gradient of the flow system. As groundwater flows from the recharge to discharge areas, chemical patterns evolve in the order of Ca²⁺–HCO₃ ^?, Ca²⁺/Mg²⁺–HCO₃ ^? to Ca²⁺–Mg²⁺–Cl^?–SO₄ ^2?, Na⁺–K⁺–Cl^?–SO₄ ^2? and Na⁺–Cl^? according to lithology. The environmental isotope (δ ¹⁸O, δ ²H, ³H) measurements further revealed that precipitation was the main recharge source for the groundwater system; some local values indicated high levels of evaporation. Tritium and CFC analysis were used to estimate the ages of the different groundwater; the tritium values of the groundwater samples varied from 2.82 to 29.7 TU. The age of the groundwater at depths of <120 m is about 30–50 years. CFC values obtained for six samples to determine groundwater age; the age of the groundwater is about 20–50 years.     

Environmental isotope investigation for the identification of source of springs observed in the hillock on the left flank of Gollaleru Earthen Dam,Andhra Pradesh,India

A hydrometric, hydrochemical and environmental isotopic study was conducted to identify the source and origin of observed springs on the foot of the hillock abutting the left flank of the Gollaleru earthen dam, Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh, India. Water samples (springs, reservoir water and groundwater) in and around the dam area were collected and analyzed for environmental isotopes (\(\updelta ^{18}\!\hbox {O}\), \(\updelta ^{2}\hbox {H}\) and \(^{3}\hbox {H}\)) and hydrochemistry. Reservoir level, spring discharges and physico-chemical parameters (temperature, electrical conductivity, pH, etc.) were monitored in-situ. Isotopic results indicated that the source of springs is from the Owk reservoir and groundwater contribution to the springs is insignificant. Based on hydrometric observations, it is inferred that the springs might be originated from the reservoir level of 209 m amsl. It is found that the lower spring discharges were derived from diffuse sources (seepage) which could be a mixture of reservoir water and the groundwater, while the relatively higher spring discharges were resulted from concentrated sources (leakage) from the reservoir. Thus, the study portraits the usefulness of isotope techniques in understanding the dam seepage/leakage related problems.