Artesian Wells: The Geological Basis and Occurrence in Hawaii
What is the geological basis for the occurrence of artesian wells? Where do they occur in Hawaii?
Artesian wells occur due to a permeable rock layer being sandwiched between two less permeable layers. In such areas, water enters at high elevations and is pressurized, forcing it to the surface if a hole is drilled. In Hawaii, such conditions are usually created by volcanic rocks, as seen in places like the Waipahu-Waiawa area on Oahu.
The geological basis for the occurrence of artesian wells is the presence of a permeable rock layer sandwiched between two less permeable layers. When water enters the permeable layer at high elevations, it is trapped and pressurized by the less permeable layers above and below. In areas where a hole is drilled into this sandwiched permeable layer, the pressurized water is forced to the surface, creating an artesian well.
In Hawaii, artesian wells can be found in areas where volcanic rocks have created the necessary geological conditions. For example, the Waipahu-Waiawa area on Oahu is known for its artesian wells.
What are the geological conditions required for the formation of artesian wells? The geological conditions required for the formation of artesian wells include a permeable rock layer sandwiched between two less permeable layers. When water enters the permeable layer at high elevations, it gets trapped and pressurized by the less permeable layers above and below. This pressure forces the water to the surface when a hole is drilled, creating an artesian well.