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Explain how groundwater is recharged.
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Groundwater recharge is the process where surface water replenishes underground aquifers. Here's a breakdown of how it happens:
Natural Recharge:
- Precipitation: Rain and snowmelt are primary sources. Water infiltrates through the soil into the saturated zone.
- Surface Water: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands can seep into the ground, especially where the water table is high and the surface water body is in direct contact with the aquifer.
Artificial Recharge (Managed Aquifer Recharge):
- Spreading Basins: Water is directed into large, shallow basins, allowing it to infiltrate into the ground.
- Injection Wells: Water is pumped directly into aquifers through wells. This method is used when surface infiltration is limited due to soil type or space constraints.
- Infiltration Galleries: Underground perforated pipes collect surface water and allow it to seep into the surrounding soil.
- Induced Recharge: Pumping wells near a surface water body to increase infiltration from the surface water source into the aquifer.
Factors Affecting Recharge:
- Permeability of Soil and Rock: The ease with which water can flow through the subsurface. Sandy soils and fractured rocks allow for faster recharge.
- Vegetation: Plant roots create pathways for water infiltration, and vegetation cover reduces surface runoff.
- Topography: Flat areas promote infiltration, while steep slopes encourage runoff.
- Land Use: Urbanization can decrease recharge due to impermeable surfaces like roads and buildings.
- Water Table Depth: A deeper water table can accommodate more recharge.