Groundwater Quality

Abstract The value of groundwater lies in its widespread occurrence and availability and also its consistent good quality. Groundwater, on the whole, is cleaner than most surface water and maintains a nearly uniform temperature. As groundwater moves through the subsurface, physical, chemical, and biological processes interact to change its original quality. The earth materials through which groundwater moves act as natural filters to screen out some bacteria and some impurities from the water. Groundwater is usually clear and colorless and of excellent sanitary quality, making it drinkable directly as withdrawn. This does not mean, however, that groundwater is completely free of impurities. In fact, all groundwater contains some dissolved minerals.