CWD Geology & Groundwater Hydrology 2

Question 1

What term describes the pressure surface to which water in a confined aquifer will rise in a tightly cased well?

Accepted Answer

Piezometric surface

Answer

The piezometric (potentiometric) surface represents the hydraulic head in a confined aquifer and is the level to which water rises under artesian pressure.

Question 2

Which sedimentary rock type is MOST commonly associated with karst aquifer systems?

Accepted Answer

Limestone

Answer

Limestone is soluble in slightly acidic groundwater, creating caves, sinkholes, and conduit flow networks characteristic of karst systems.

Question 3

Darcy's Law states that groundwater flow rate is proportional to which property?

Accepted Answer

Hydraulic gradient and hydraulic conductivity

Answer

Darcy's Law (Q = K·i·A) shows that flow is directly proportional to both hydraulic conductivity (K) and hydraulic gradient (i).

Question 4

A formation that transmits water but yields it slowly, often acting as a leaky boundary, is called a(n):

Accepted Answer

Aquitard

Answer

An aquitard restricts but does not completely prevent groundwater flow, and can contribute water to adjacent aquifers through leakage.

Question 5

What is the primary mechanism by which an artesian well flows at the surface without pumping?

Accepted Answer

Hydrostatic pressure in a confined aquifer exceeds the land surface elevation

Answer

A flowing artesian well occurs when the potentiometric surface of a confined aquifer lies above the ground surface at the well location.

(CWD) Certified Well Driller Practice Test

(CWD) Certified Well Driller Practice Test

CWD Geology & Groundwater Hydrology 2