Articles tagged with Groundwater
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study found that Brood X cicada emergence holes significantly increased water infiltration rates in undisturbed areas but not in disturbed sites. The holes filled with sediment and debris over time, causing a rapid decrease in infiltration at disturbed locations.
Researchers found that tides play a crucial role in modulating groundwater discharge and coastal salinity, especially during low rainfall periods. Heavy rains and tropical cyclones also impact submarine groundwater discharge, with significant effects on coastal ecosystems and aquaculture.
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that adding organic carbon substances like ethanol and glucose can improve nitrate degradation in groundwater. Temperature played a significant role in selecting the most effective substance.
A new dataset from Canterbury earthquakes provides over 15,000 case histories for liquefaction, significantly augmenting model training and testing. The dataset enhances hazard assessments and improves engineering solutions in earthquake recovery, benefiting society as a whole.
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a groundbreaking technology to accurately map and characterize groundwater systems. The new method uses surface-based NMR measurements, enabling detailed hydrogeological and geological analysis in previously inaccessible areas.
A new study warns that California's Central Valley groundwater may be unable to recover from past and future droughts, with less than a third recovered after the 2012-2016 drought. The researchers found that groundwater recovery times can be halved with modest caps on pumping in drought and post-drought years.
Princeton researchers have solved a 54-year-old mystery about why certain fluids slow down under pressure when flowing through porous materials. The findings could help improve processes in oil recovery, groundwater remediation and more.
A new project led by Cornell University's Flavio Lehner will improve climate models to reduce uncertainty in future water projections. The research aims to assess the sensitivity of models to changing environmental factors, such as temperature and greenhouse gases.
A new study analyzes when a low-to-no-snow future might arrive and its implications for water management. If greenhouse gas emissions continue, low-to-no-snow winters will become regular occurrences in the western U.S. in 35 to 60 years.
Researchers developed a new method to locate groundwater using satellite imagery, geospatial techniques, and GIS. The technique identifies most effective recharge zones as those with numerous rock fractures, low drainage, and gentle slopes.
A new study reveals that incorporating lateral groundwater processes into forest models can significantly impact predictions of tree survival in drought conditions. By accounting for the sideways flow of water through soil, scientists can better understand how riparian forests will respond to future climate change.
A new study by PSE Healthy Energy reveals that over 16 billion barrels of oil and gas wastewater were disposed of in unlined pits, contaminating regional aquifers with salts and toxins. The Tulare Basin, home to four million people, is at risk due to a lack of regulatory protections for groundwater near these disposal sites.
Researchers found that changes to the ice sheet immediately impact the groundwater underlying the island, affecting Arctic hydrology and ocean circulation patterns. The discovery sheds new light on the importance of groundwater in responding to climate change.
Groundwater recovery time varies by region and human activity, with some areas taking up to 15 years to recharge. Excessive pumping can cause land subsidence, contaminant mobilization, and decreased water quality.
Researchers at Binghamton University used thermal imaging drones to detect coastal seeps on Easter Island, finding areas where freshwater emerges from the sea. The technology allows for high-resolution images of these sources, enabling researchers to better understand how ancient communities used them to survive.
The Bureau of Reclamation has awarded $3.1 million in grants to develop improved water data, modeling and forecasting capabilities for water managers in western states. The selected projects will provide accurate and reliable information to support informed decision-making in a changing climate.
New research published in PNAS suggests that community-based monitoring can improve water management in rural Costa Rica by reducing groundwater extraction and improving water quality. The program, which used a smartphone application and WhatsApp, showed modest but significant effects after one year.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin tracked water storage in 14 major US aquifers over 15 years, finding that irrigation habits can be managed more effectively in humid regions. The study highlights the importance of surface water in replenishing groundwater, which helps dampen the impacts of irrigation.
A team of scientists from GEOMAR and the University of Malta discovered a groundwater reservoir off the coast of Malta using innovative methods. The research found evidence of an isolated freshwater body in limestone formations three kilometers from the coast, which could represent a new source of drinking water for the islands.
Scientists have reported the discovery of freshened groundwater offshore the Maltese Islands, which may constitute a new source of potable water. The study suggests that this offshore groundwater body is isolated and not actively recharged, posing sustainability concerns for its exploitation.
A new machine learning technique has been developed to assess water quality data and detect groundwater samples impacted by oil and gas production. The study concludes that hydrofracking does not necessarily incur more environmental problems than conventional drilling, although further research is needed to confirm this finding.
Anthropologists at Binghamton University have received a grant from the National Geographic Society to study ancient Rapa Nui communities' water management techniques. Their research will focus on coastal seeps and inland resources, shedding light on how past populations dealt with freshwater scarcity.
Researchers analyzed satellite imagery and groundwater data from 2015-2020, finding that current practices threaten riparian ecosystems' long-term survival. The study suggests a need for revised water management strategies to mitigate water stress and preserve these critical environments.
Researchers warn that karst aquifers are vulnerable to contamination due to fast infiltration of pollutants during rainfall events. The study highlights the risks of degradable pollutants like glyphosate exceeding safe levels by 19 times.
Researchers used seismic waves to monitor groundwater dynamics in high mountains, tracking changes in soil saturation and predicting runoff. The study provides valuable insights into the function of the vadose zone as a link between precipitation and groundwater reservoirs.
Concordia researchers report that over three-quarters of Iran's land is under extreme groundwater overdraft, primarily driven by agricultural demands. Urgent action is needed to address the growing crisis and prevent irreversible impacts on land and the environment.
Researchers found that pollutants can reach groundwater supplies quickly, posing a significant risk to drinking water quality. The study highlights the increased risk of pollution in karst regions with thin soils, such as the Mediterranean region.
Researchers found that low-to-mid latitude land surfaces cooled by an average of 5.8°C during the Last Glacial Maximum, contradicting previous estimates. The study's findings suggest a higher climate sensitivity to greenhouse gases and potentially stronger future global warming.
A recent study reveals that up to 50% of contaminants reach groundwater before degrading through focused recharge, posing a significant challenge for water and land use management. Focused recharge can lead to higher levels of pollutants in groundwater, exceeding maximum permissible concentrations in Europe.
A study by researchers in Berlin and Milan found that floods can increase bacteria concentrations in groundwater due to reduced purification capacity of bank filtration. The research highlights the importance of considering seasonal dynamics and sediment properties in risk assessment practices.
Research suggests that global warming caused a shift in the Earth's axis due to glacial melting and changes in land water storage. The study analyzed data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission, finding that water loss on land contributed significantly to the eastward change in polar drift.
A new study published in Astrobiology finds that Martian meteorites contain the necessary ingredients to support microbial life, including water and radioactive elements. The researchers believe that wherever there's groundwater on Mars, there's a good chance of finding habitable environments for subsurface microbial life.
A new Stanford-led study develops a framework to calculate future floodwater volumes under climate change, identifying areas for infrastructure investments in California's aging water infrastructure. The tool aims to maximize groundwater recharge, reducing drought risks and building water reserves, while also mitigating flood risks.
A new study reveals a strong correlation between changes in Taiwan's seismicity rate and its seasonal water cycle fluctuations. Shallow earthquakes in eastern Taiwan show an opposite correlation, with peak seismicity rates occurring in either winter or summer.
University of Hawaii researchers demonstrate a new method to detect freshwater plumes using surface-towed marine controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) imaging. The study reveals substantial volumes of freshwater present in the ocean column, with one plume estimated to be equivalent to four Olympic-sized swimming pools.
A global study led by the University of Gothenburg found that groundwater discharges are a major source of nitrogen and phosphorus to coastal waters worldwide, often exceeding river pollution at 60% of sites. This discovery highlights the importance of considering groundwater aquifers in managing coastal water quality.
A Rutgers-led study reveals the 20th century saw the fastest sea-level rise in 2,000 years along much of the US Atlantic coast. The global increase from melting ice and warming oceans was more than twice the average for the past 1800 years.
Researchers found nearly two-thirds of wells have water levels below nearest stream, indicating rivers are leaking into aquifers. The phenomenon, exacerbated by human activity, may worsen in decades, with some rivers potentially disappearing, impacting downstream communities and ecosystems.
A new study found that sea-level rise is causing wastewater to flood into coastal waters in urban Honolulu, leading to negative impacts on water quality and ecological health. The study used chemical tracers to detect groundwater discharge and wastewater, revealing that both are occurring today due to tidal influences.
A public-private partnership in Monterey/Salinas has developed a novel water recycling program using urban stormwater runoff, irrigation drainage, food processing water, and traditional municipal wastewater. The recycled water supplies one-third of all drinking water on the Monterey Peninsula while providing irrigation water for high-v...
A University of Michigan study finds that groundwater depletion could significantly impact Indian agriculture, with potential losses of up to 20% in winter cropped acreage nationwide. The researchers estimate that even partial replacement with canal irrigation may not be enough to maintain current production levels.
The developed framework captures detailed information on agricultural groundwater use at the regional scale down to individual fields. It combines data from satellite images, weather prediction models, and land-surface hydrology models to estimate water delivery to each field.
Researchers at OIST created a tiny setup with two microscopic cylinders to study fluid path selection around obstacles. The results revealed that the central gap size determines the fluid's choice between three available paths, offering insights into fluid transport in real-world systems.
A recent study led by the University of Malta discovered that groundwater flow can create large gullies along Canterbury's coastline, New Zealand, with some forming in under a week. The gullies are a significant coastal hazard, leading to agricultural land loss and posing risks to local communities.
A global assessment reveals that groundwater discharge plays a significant role in ocean chemistry, with elements like lithium and barium entering the sea from underground sources. The study suggests that groundwater inputs can account for up to 16% of river contributions to ocean chemistry.
A new analysis suggests that subsidence, the sinking of ground's surface, will impact 19% of the world's population - 21% of GDP - by 2040. The model identifies areas with high susceptibility to subsidence, particularly in Asia, where 635 million inhabitants are exposed.
A new technology that can quickly remove and destroy hazardous PFAS compounds from soil and groundwater has been developed by a team of scientists at the University of Rhode Island. The process, called XCT OxyZone, uses a combination of a sugar molecule and chemical oxidation to break down the compounds.
A recent study led by UC Santa Barbara's Marc Mayes investigates how patterns in tree water loss to the atmosphere relates to groundwater supplies. The results validate at landscape-wide scales ideas that scientists have proposed based on decades of research.
A new research group at the University of Oldenburg is studying subsurface processes on North Sea beaches with high waves and strong tides. The team aims to assess the importance of these underground habitats for coastal ecosystems and global carbon, nutrient, and trace element cycling.
A McGill University-led research team analyzed over 200,000 groundwater samples and found that current guidelines may need revision to reflect modern uses and technologies. The study suggests that existing wells already encroach on 'bases of fresh water' and brackish waters exist within current groundwater basins.
A team of scientists analyzed processes in the root zone to determine nitrogen fate. They found nearly 75% of Europe's agricultural land vulnerable to nitrate leaching during critical months. This study provides more precise information for risk management and adjusting fertiliser regimes.
A new regional model predicts uranium contamination in California's Central Valley aquifers based on calcium concentrations and soil alkalinity. The study suggests that water managers can forecast solutions by including data about soil properties when generating aquifer vulnerability maps for naturally occurring contaminants like uranium.
A new study by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg reveals that Bavarian groundwater has warmed considerably over the past few decades. The findings show that groundwater temperatures at depths of 20 metres are almost one degree warmer on average than in the 1990s, correlating with a 1.05 degrees Celsius rise in air temperature.
Researchers have mapped a vast freshwater reservoir off the coast of Hawaii Island, revealing a new mechanism for transporting freshwater from onshore to offshore aquifers. This discovery has significant implications for sustainable development on volcanic islands, potentially providing alternative renewable resources.
A remote monitoring tool has been developed to predict geological movement and groundwater flow in old coalfields. The tool uses satellite radar imagery to capture millimetre-scale measurements of changes in terrain height, allowing for the monitoring and forecasting of groundwater levels and changes in geological conditions.
Researchers highlight PFAS' widespread presence in the environment, bioaccumulation risks, and difficulty in remediation. Health effects may include increased cancer rates, hormonal disruption, and immune responses.
Researchers have discovered microplastics in groundwater, which can contaminate drinking water sources and harm ecosystems. The presence of microplastics in groundwater has been linked to increased toxicity and bioaccumulation, posing a significant risk to human health and the environment.
Researchers are working to determine how severe coastal storms contribute to water pollution in beach aquifers. The team will use computerized sensors installed at sites along the shoreline to measure groundwater flow and track the effects of saltwater intrusion.
Research led by University of Hawai'i at Mānoa scientists reveals that rain from hurricanes and Kona storms is a key source of fresh water for Hawaii's groundwater. The study analyzed rainfall and stable isotopes to determine the origin of water in aquifers, finding significant amounts of rainwater recharging groundwater.
A new study models groundwater use and crop production as a predator-prey interaction, predicting declining irrigated food production in the US High Plains. By 2050, Nebraska is expected to have nearly 10 times the groundwater-based food production of Texas due to higher recharge rates.