Hydrogeophysical study of the El Qaa Plain, Sinai, Egypt

Abstract

The paper reports a study of the Quaternary aquifer in the El Qaa Plain using gravity, magnetic and geoelectric surveys. One hundred and twelve gravity and magnetic stations were measured and interpreted. The area is dissected by faults with orientations consistent with the Gulfs of Suez and Aqaba and the Nile valley. Groundwater data indicated an E–W flow and an increase in salinity toward the Gulf of Suez. The Piper diagram indicates that the water type of the El Qaa plain is Na–Ca–Cl–SO4 and the hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer 50 m/day. The calculated effective porosity is about 43.1%.