Geophysical investigation of groundwater level using vertical electrical sounding

Project Abstract

Geophysical methods are widely used to investigate groundwater resources, with Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) being a commonly employed technique for assessing groundwater levels. This research project focuses on the geophysical investigation of groundwater levels using VES to provide valuable insights into the subsurface characteristics and water table depth. The study area selected for this research is characterized by varying geologic formations and hydrogeological conditions, making it an ideal location for assessing the effectiveness of VES in determining groundwater levels. The VES data acquisition involved the measurement of electrical resistivity at different depths using a Schlumberger electrode configuration. The data obtained from the field surveys were processed and interpreted to delineate subsurface layers and estimate the water table depth. The interpretation of VES data involved the use of computer software to model the subsurface layers based on the resistivity values obtained from the field measurements. By analyzing the resistivity data, the researchers were able to identify different geological units and their corresponding resistivity values, which provided insights into the subsurface lithology and groundwater distribution. The results of the VES surveys revealed distinct geoelectric layers corresponding to different lithological units within the subsurface. By correlating these layers with known geological formations in the area, the researchers were able to infer the depth to the water table and the potential groundwater storage capacity of the study area. Furthermore, the integration of VES data with hydrogeological information allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the groundwater system in the study area. The findings from this research contribute to the knowledge of groundwater exploration and management by demonstrating the utility of VES in assessing groundwater levels and subsurface characteristics. In conclusion, the geophysical investigation of groundwater levels using VES provides valuable information for understanding the hydrogeological conditions of an area. By utilizing VES data to delineate subsurface layers and estimate water table depths, this research enhances our ability to assess groundwater resources effectively. The results of this study have implications for groundwater exploration, management, and sustainable utilization in similar geological settings.

Project Overview

<p> One major source of obtaining portable water which is one of the most consumed minerals at homes, in the industries and factories today is through boreholes and drilled wells. Ever since man began to live in communities, the problem of suitable and adequate water supply especially for domestic and farm use has always agitated the mind. However, in most developing countries such as Nigeria, clean water is not continuously available or may not be available at all. Groundwater is considered as a very important natural resource. In arid, semi arid, and dry regions, this may be the only source of water supply. Even in humid areas, groundwater is considered a better resource for many economic and hygienic reasons. The role of groundwater in sustaining the life of man on this planet can hardly be overemphasized. Presently, all the developed and developing countries are giving top priorities to short and long term schemes envisaging exploration and exploitation of groundwater reserves in their respective regions. Already, millions of gallons of groundwater are being pumped out every day in the world to meet industrial, agricultural and domestic needs of man. In most parts of Ewu, Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State, not all wells yield appreciable quantity of portable water since they are prone to variation in groundwater characteristics because of the disparity in lithological, structural formation and sedimentation parameters. The existence of failed boreholes and dry wells has posed a great concern. This is however, traceable to sitting and drilling of boreholes without geophysical studies. Therefore, it is essential that a reliable geophysical study should be carried out before drilling of boreholes. <br></p>