Scientific Quarterly Journal of Geosciences

Scientific Quarterly Journal of Geosciences

Effect of Natural and Anthropogenic Factors on Water Resources Quality in Lenjanat Plain, Esfahan, Iran

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors
H. R. Nassery 1
Z. Kayhomayoon 2
M. Nakhaei 3
1 Associate Professor, Geology Department, Earth Science Faculty, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Geology Department, Science Faculty, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran
3 Associate Professor, Geology Department, Science Faculty, Tarbiat Moallem University, Tehran, Iran
10.22071/gsj.2012.54034
Abstract
Hydrochemical properties of water resources in Lenjanat plain and the effect of natural and anthropogenic factors have been determined. For this purpose, 162 water samples including groundwater, surface water and industrial wastewater seasonally in 1387 were collected. The results of field and laboratory measurements of physicochemical parameters, major, minor and trace elements show that the high EC (561-11390 μS/cm) in groundwater is due to high concentration of major elements (Na, Ca, Cl and SO4). Specific elements of evaporates and carbonate deposits (B, Ba, Br, Sr, I and Li) are higher concentrations than the other minor and trace elements measured in the aquifer. Cumulative Distribution Function (CDF), hydrogeochemical graphs, certain ratios and saturation index from geochemical modeling indicates that the dissolution of evaporation deposits (halite and gypsum) and cation exchange are the most important processes affecting the chemical composition of groundwater. The results of applying statistical techniques (factor and cluster analysis) confirmed water/rock interaction in the aquifer and show the effect of human activities on groundwater quality by increasing NO3 ion. Concentration of nitrogen compounds and the presence of bacteria indicate the impact of agricultural, industrial and domestic wastewater on the Zayandehrud River. Industrial sewage has no affect on groundwater quality.
Keywords
Hydrogeochemistry
Water Resources Quality
Natural Factors
Anthropogenic Impacts
Lenjanat
 
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Scientific Quarterly Journal of Geosciences
Volume 22, Issue 85
Autumn 2013
Pages 173-186