PRINCIPAL TYPES OF HYDROGEOLOGIC STRUCTURES IN THE U.S.S.R.

Abstract

Different parts of the U. S. S. R. are characterized by highly diverse hydrogeologic conditions which permit the distinction of a great number of hydrogeologic regions. The two principal types are artesian basins and hydrogeologic massifs. Artesian basins include platform and intermontane depressions. Hydrogeologic massifs, where fissure-vein ground waters prevail, are found in the crystalline shield areas. The basins and massifs are subdivided into groups depending on conditions of mineralization, temperature, and other specific features of the ground water. Thus, artesian basins are subdivided into those with fresh water, with salt water and brine, thermal waters, and those of permafrost ice. Hydrogeologic massifs include groups with cold carbonate and radon waters, with thermal sulfur-carbonate waters, with cold and thermal methane waters, and with hydrogen-sulfide waters. The distribution of artesian basins and hydrogeologic massifs, and their subgroups, in the U. S. S. R. is given M. Russell