HYDROGEO.&HYDROCHEM.STUDY OF AL-SALMAN QUADRANGLE

Abstract

The exposed rocks in Al-Salman Quadrangle are represented by: Umm Er Radhuma, Dammam, Euphrates, Ghar, and Zahra formations, in addition to the Quaternary sediments. From the structural point of view Al-Salman Quadrangle is located within the Southern Desert of Iraq, which belongs to the Stable Shelf of the Arabian Platform. Topographically the map area is characterized by flat rocky terrain associated with structural ridges and karst landforms. The climate of the map area is under the conditions of arid climate, which is highly affected by desert condition. It is characterized by hot and dry summer and relatively cold winter with low rain fall. Dammam, Umm Er Radhuma and Tayarat formations represent the main aquifers within the map area. Dammam and Umm Er Radhuma formations represent the main upper aquifers within the map area, while Tayarat Formation represents the deep (second) aquifer. The general direction of the ground water flow in the map area is from west to east and from southwest to northeast. Quality of the ground water is variable. It is mainly sulphatic in the most parts of the map area, with some chloridic and bicarbonate water in local areas. The ground water in the map area is classified according to the total dissolved solids into four classes: fresh water, slightly brackish water, moderately brackish water and highly brackish water. Generally, the ground water in the map area is mainly slightly and moderately brackish water. The ground water in the map area is mostly not suitable for human drinking, but it is mostly suitable for live stock. There are limitations with respect to poultry. Ground water can be used for irrigation purposes especially for selected plants. Water from a number of wells can be used for building and construction and industrial purposes.