14.3. Groundwater – Review Questions

• What is the difference between a confined and unconfined aquifer?

• Consider how water moves into and out of an unconfined aquifer. How does the level of water in an unconfined aquifer vary seasonally?

• What makes a good aquifer (i.e., an aquifer that can hold lots of water that will flow readily to a well in that aquifer)?

• How does groundwater recharge?

• How is groundwater connected with surface water?

• Draw a cross-section through an aquifer and label all the parts.

• Describe how the level of the water table can change around a groundwater well when water is removed. What controls changes in the water table level? What happens if the discharge is higher than the recharge for extended periods of time?

• Describe some examples of groundwater pollution. What kinds of contaminants can create problems in groundwater? What are some sources for each type of contaminant?

Extra review questions that may be covered in lecture (depending on your professor) that are not completely covered in the the textbook readings:

• What proportion of municipal water used in Saskatchewan is sourced from groundwater?

• Draw and describe the differences between a gaining and a losing stream.

• What are the three principle types of pores found in aquifer materials? Draw examples of each.

• What leads to saltwater intrusion?