<p>This study presents an integrated hydrogeophysical investigation to delineate groundwater-bearing formations and evaluate structural controls on groundwater distribution in the northwestern part of Minia, Egypt. Gravity surveying, Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), and borehole hydrochemical analyses were combined to characterize subsurface architecture and aquifer properties. Gravity data, supported by spectral analysis, tilt derivatives, and Euler deconvolution, reveal a structurally controlled faulted basin with basement depths ranging from 789 to 1695 m. Dominant NE–SW, NW–SE, and N–S fault trends define significant basement relief and accommodation space for thick sedimentary sequences. Geoelectrical results define a four-layer succession consisting of surface Wadi deposits, a fractured limestone aquifer, massive limestone, and shaly limestone. The fractured limestone unit forms the principal aquifer, with a thickness of 116–120 m, and exhibits lateral variations in resistivity linked to fault-controlled fracturing. Borehole data indicate water table depths of 33–37 m and brackish groundwater with TDS values of 1780–2500 mg/L. Hydrochemical facies dominated by Na<sup>+</sup>, Ca<sup>2+</sup>, Mg<sup>2+</sup>, and Cl suggest strong water–rock interaction within carbonate formations. The integrated model demonstrates that tectonic structures primarily control aquifer geometry, groundwater storage, and quality. These findings provide a reliable framework for optimized well siting and sustainable groundwater management in structurally complex arid environments.</p>

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Delineating Groundwater Aquifers and Subsurface Structures Using Geophysical Data in the Northwestern Part of Minia, Egypt

  • Sultan A. S. Araffa,
  • Mohamed H. Farag,
  • Mostafa G. Hegab,
  • Mahmoud M. Khalil

摘要

This study presents an integrated hydrogeophysical investigation to delineate groundwater-bearing formations and evaluate structural controls on groundwater distribution in the northwestern part of Minia, Egypt. Gravity surveying, Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), and borehole hydrochemical analyses were combined to characterize subsurface architecture and aquifer properties. Gravity data, supported by spectral analysis, tilt derivatives, and Euler deconvolution, reveal a structurally controlled faulted basin with basement depths ranging from 789 to 1695 m. Dominant NE–SW, NW–SE, and N–S fault trends define significant basement relief and accommodation space for thick sedimentary sequences. Geoelectrical results define a four-layer succession consisting of surface Wadi deposits, a fractured limestone aquifer, massive limestone, and shaly limestone. The fractured limestone unit forms the principal aquifer, with a thickness of 116–120 m, and exhibits lateral variations in resistivity linked to fault-controlled fracturing. Borehole data indicate water table depths of 33–37 m and brackish groundwater with TDS values of 1780–2500 mg/L. Hydrochemical facies dominated by Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Cl suggest strong water–rock interaction within carbonate formations. The integrated model demonstrates that tectonic structures primarily control aquifer geometry, groundwater storage, and quality. These findings provide a reliable framework for optimized well siting and sustainable groundwater management in structurally complex arid environments.