Chemistry of the groundwater in delta Wadi Dahab, southeast Sinai, Egypt [electronic resource].

Includes references.

The main object of this paper is to elucidate the chemical properties of the Quaternary aquifer groundwater in Delta Wadi Dahab for uses in irrigation and domestic purposes. To achieve this goal, several chemical parameters were discussed including salinity, hardness, major constituents, ion dominance, hypothetical salts and hydrochemical coefficients through the analytical results of some selected groundwater samples. Additionally, genesis and formation of water mineralization were also discussed through the study of the main processes affecting water quality and the standard methods of groundwater classification. Eventually, the study revealed meteoric origin for groundwater, most probably affected by dissolution of salts of marine origin associated with the aquifer matrix. Furthermore, the evaluation of groundwater for different purposes showed the unsuitability of groundwater for drinking but can be used for the irrigation of certain suitable plants that tolerate high salinity. Keywords: Chemistry, groundwater, salinity, Dahab area, southeast Sinai, Egypt.

Summary in Arabic.

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