What does groundwater geology refer to?

Groundwater geology focuses on the layers of material that exist between the surface soil and the groundwater table. This includes the various types of soils, sediments, and rocks found in this subsurface area that influence the movement and quality of groundwater. Understanding these layers is essential since they can affect the filtration of water, the presence of contaminants, and the flow of water both vertically and horizontally. This knowledge is crucial for effective groundwater management and ensuring that groundwater remains a sustainable resource.

While vegetation types above ground, the chemical properties of groundwater, and its temperature can all impact the groundwater system indirectly, they do not directly describe the geologic features that compose the subsurface layers where groundwater is stored and flows.