Abstract
This study aims to present a comparative assessment of hydrochemical characterization and groundwater quality in karst aquifers with the support of GIS which is essential to correlate the source of water with climate and geology, and to evaluate suitability of water for various uses. The study area is the Altinova region in Turkey where intensive agricultural activities prevail and travertine covers 85% of the study area. A total of 25 groundwater wells were monitored by seasonal field measurements and extensive water quality analyses for a period of one year to establish correlation between groundwater quality, its source, regional climate, and geology. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess the groundwater's suitability for irrigation based on electrical conductivity, sodium adsorption ratio, sodium percentage, magnesium hazard, permeability index, residual sodium bicarbonate, Kelly’s ratio, and an irrigation water quality (IWQ) index. This multi-parameter evaluation was further integrated with geospatial analysis using ArcGIS, providing a detailed spatial understanding of hydrochemical variations across the area. Major cations and anions dominance were identified as Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ and HCO3− > Cl− > SO42−, respectively. Spatial mapping identified high concentrations of Ca2+, TDS, TH, and SO42− in non-karstic areas, occasionally exceeding WHO guidelines. Nitrate concentrations displayed varied spatial distribution. The SAR values generally matched C2-S1 and C3-S1 classes, suggesting medium to high salinity risks and low sodium presence. Based on the IWQ index and observed correlations with total dissolved solids, the groundwater in Altinova’s karstic aquifer is considered suitable for irrigation, with salinization largely due to ionic interactions and geology. The presented comparative assessment provides a holistic approach for understanding hydrochemical characteristics of karst aquifers, and analyzing the impacts of natural factors and anthropogenic pollution sources on groundwater quality.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
