Paineakviferiin

Paineakviferiin, also known as a confined aquifer, is a groundwater aquifer that is overlain by a confining layer of impermeable rock or sediment. This confining layer, often called aquiclude or aquitard, prevents or significantly restricts the movement of water into and out of the aquifer. As a result, the water within a confined aquifer is under pressure, often greater than atmospheric pressure.

The water in a confined aquifer is typically replenished by recharge areas located far away, where the confining layer is absent or thinner, allowing precipitation to infiltrate down to the aquifer. Because the water is under pressure, if a well is drilled into a confined aquifer, the water level in the well will rise above the top of the aquifer. In some cases, the pressure can be so great that the water will flow to the surface without the need for pumping, creating an artesian well.

Confined aquifers are important sources of fresh water in many regions. However, they can be vulnerable to contamination if the confining layer is breached or if pollutants are introduced into the recharge area. Over-extraction of water from confined aquifers can lead to a decline in water levels and a decrease in pressure, potentially causing wells to go dry or even leading to land subsidence if the aquifer material compacts. Understanding the hydrogeology of confined aquifers is crucial for sustainable water management.