INFLUENCE OF WATER RECHARGE ON HEAT-TRANSFER IN A SEMIINFINITE AQUIFER

A simple model is proposed for the temperature field within an unconfi ned semi-infinite thick aquifer, with groundwater flowing parallel to the terrestrial heat flow in the recharge zone, and perpendicular to h eat flow in the other parts of the aquifer. The results enable evaluat ion of the extent of the influence of the recharge zone, once the ther mal and hydrological parameters are known. Beyond this zone, where the rmal equilibrium between water and rock is reached, water temperature reaches the constant highest value, and water movement cannot be revea led by temperature measurements. Moreover, on the basis of the range o f influence of the recharge zone, the regional water pore velocity can be inferred. (C) 1997 CNR.