Water beneath the Earth’s surface in soil pores and rock fractures. Groundwater is invisible but accounts for a vast share of freshwater resources, making it critical for water supply and ecosystem support.
Scope
- Groundwater levels: Monitoring well data, piezometric surfaces, hydraulic head
- Aquifer characteristics: Permeability, transmissivity, storage coefficient, aquifer boundaries
- Groundwater flow: Flow direction and velocity, recharge zones, discharge areas (springs)
- Groundwater–surface water interaction: Base flow contribution to rivers, spring-fed wetlands
Cross-Sphere Connections
- Geosphere (geology): Aquifer geometry is determined by geological formations — Geology
- Geosphere (soil): Infiltration through soil recharges groundwater — Soil Properties
- Anthroposphere: Water abstraction volumes — Resource Utilisation
Leaves
| Leaf | Question | Lens | Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drinking Water & Water Source Protection | What drinking water source protection zones or supply infrastructure exist here? | member | |
| Groundwater Bodies | Which groundwater body or aquifer is present here, and what status applies? | primary | |
| Groundwater Chemistry | What is the chemical status of groundwater in this area, and which substances drive trends or exceedances? | primary | |
| Subsurface Freshwater | What do boreholes reveal about subsurface freshwater chemistry and aquifer behavior here? | primary |
Classical Theme Mappings
| Standard | Theme | Link |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 19115 | Inland Waters | Inland Waters |
| INSPIRE | Hydrography | Hydrography |
| UN-GGIM | Water | Water |