Geoelectric Sounding for Estimating Aquifer Hydraulic Conductivity

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to develop surface electrical resistivity methods for estimating hydraulic conductivities in glacial outwash materials. Aquifer electrical resistivities were determined from the results of Schlumberger electrical soundings at six sites in southern Rhode Island where pumping tests had previously been made. Hydraulic conductivities and transmissivities determined from pumping tests were then correlated with resistivities obtained from electrical soundings. Results indicate that electrical resistivities determined from soundings can be used to predict aquifer hydraulic conductivities; an empirical relation between aquifer electrical resistivity and aquifer hydraulic conductivity was developed. A semiempirical relation between aquifer formation factor and hydraulic conductivity was also developed.