Question:

Which possible combination of aquifers are encountered by deep wells depending on the hydro-geological characteristics of a particular area:
(A) A series of confined aquifers
(B) A series of semi confined aquifers
(C) A combination of confined and semi confined aquifers
(D) A confined aquifer underlain by a series of unconfined aquifers
(E) An unconfined aquifer underlain by a series of semi-confined aquifers
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Show Hint

To eliminate options quickly:
A confined aquifer cannot sit directly above an unconfined aquifer.
Excluding (D) from the options immediately leads to the correct answer.
  • (A), (B), (C) and (E) only.
  • (A), (B), (D) and (E) only.
  • (A), (C), (D) and (E) only.
  • (B), (C), (D) and (E) only.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Hydrogeology studies the distribution and movement of groundwater in soil and rocks.
A deep water well can penetrate several different aquifer layers separated by aquitards or aquicludes depending on the local stratigraphy.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us analyze the geological feasibility of each aquifer stacking combination:
Combination (A) represents a series of confined aquifers separated by impermeable clay or rock layers.
This is a common configuration in sedimentary basins, making (A) a valid combination.
Combination (B) represents a series of semi-confined (leaky) aquifers separated by semi-pervious aquitards.
This is also common in alluvial plains, making (B) a valid combination.
Combination (C) represents a mix of fully confined and semi-confined aquifers at different depths, making (C) a valid combination.
Combination (E) represents an unconfined (water table) aquifer at the surface, underlain by deeper semi-confined aquifers.
This is the standard geological profile in many regions, making (E) a valid combination.
Combination (D) describes a confined aquifer underlain by unconfined aquifers.
This is physically and hydrogeologically impossible under normal conditions.
By definition, a confined aquifer is under pressure and bounded by confining layers.
An unconfined aquifer must have a water table at atmospheric pressure, meaning it cannot exist beneath a deeper confined, pressurized system.
Therefore, combination (D) is invalid.

Step 3: Final Answer:

The hydrogeologically valid combinations of aquifers are (A), (B), (C), and (E) only.
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