Rétegvíz

Rétegvíz refers to groundwater that is held within a permeable rock or sediment layer, known as an aquifer, and is confined between two impermeable layers of rock or sediment. These impermeable layers, often called aquitards or aquicludes, prevent or significantly slow down the vertical movement of water into or out of the aquifer.

The water in a rétegvíz is typically under hydrostatic pressure. This pressure is a result of the weight of the overlying water column. If a well is drilled into a rétegvíz, the water level in the well will rise above the bottom of the aquifer, and in some cases, it can rise above the ground surface, creating a flowing artesian well. The pressure is maintained because the aquifer is recharged in an area where the confining layers are absent or permeable, allowing water to enter and fill the confined space.

Rétegvíz plays a crucial role in many water supply systems, particularly in areas where surface water is scarce. However, its extraction can be complex. Over-pumping can lead to a decrease in pressure and a potential depletion of the aquifer. Additionally, the quality of rétegvíz can be affected by the surrounding geological formations, and contamination can be particularly persistent due to the confined nature of the aquifer. Understanding the hydrogeology of rétegvíz is essential for sustainable groundwater management.