Groundwater, water stored beneath the Earth's surface, exhibits distinct characteristics compared to surface water. Based on the provided reference, key characteristics include higher salinity and subsequently higher density.
Key Characteristics of Groundwater
Groundwater differs from surface water in several ways due to its environment and movement. Two notable characteristics highlighted in the reference are its chemical composition and resulting physical properties.
Higher Salinity
A significant characteristic of groundwater is its elevated salinity. This is because:
- Groundwater flows farther and slower through underground layers.
- This extended and slower contact with rocks and soil allows more time for soluble minerals to dissolve.
- As a result, groundwater often contains a higher concentration of dissolved salts and minerals compared to surface water.
Higher Density
Following from its higher salinity, groundwater typically possesses a higher density.
- With a higher concentration of dissolved substances, the overall mass per unit volume of groundwater increases.
- Therefore, groundwater with higher salinity has a higher density as a result.
These characteristics are influenced by the geological formations through which the water travels and the duration of its underground journey.
